JacobS

The problem with over nitration is it makes the nitrocellulose more sensitive (i believe.) and the baking soda would be added to the formed nitrocellulose after the material had been thoroughly rinsed. Also, if the nitration continued, I am reasonably sure I'm prepared. I will be doing a lot of theory and testing before attempting and larger-scale production, starting with making like 1-2 CM squares and making very few at a time. As far as i understand, over-nitrated nitrocellulose is reasonably safe as long as you don't plan to store it for very long, and also, i have access to stronger bases (such as NaOH) but Baking Soda is what was recommended.

Okay, so I have set up a small lab in my backyard with the express intent of making nitrocellulose for use in model rockets. I already know the basic principle of how to make it, but I don't have as much ready access to Sulfuric as I would like. So, I'm wondering for safeties (and my wallets) sake if there is a way to stop run-away nitrification caused by only using Nitric Acid, such as simply neutralizing the guncotton. Should be that possible (and I'm fairly sure it is) what should I use? I know Lye is a popular choice, but I'm wondering if i could use something like bleach or perhaps even baking soda for the same purpose. For the record, I'm planning to make VERY small quantities of this, especially at first, and I don't plan on storing the nitrocellulose for any period of time. Just a guy that likes to understand things and put that understanding to use on something I'm passionate (such as model rocketry). Any help and suggestions are appreciated, I'm not stupid enough to attempt something like this without the wisdom of the better educated. -Jacob