An Experimental Study of Ancient Chinese Gunpowder Recipes

Briefly outlines the historical development of gunpowder and relevant experiments performed by others in this area . The authors conducted some simulation tests with ancient recipes of gunpowder and determined the basic characteristics of these recipes . Results of these tests were carefully analysed and disccused .The test results revealed that the recipe as recorded by Qing Xuzi had the characteristics of an original gunpowder and it was the first original recipe discovered up to the present that can be dated . Other recipes of ancient powders were also tested . The test results provided experimental data for further research on the invention and development of the gunpowder .