Final answer:
A slow-burning fuse should have a balanced ratio of ingredients (potassium nitrate and sugar), be thoroughly dried, have fine granularity, and ensure even saturation of the yarn. Adjustments may be needed if the fuse does not burn consistently.
Step-by-step explanation:
To make a slow-burning fuse that lasts the length of the yarn, it's essential to ensure that the mixture is correctly formulated and thoroughly dried. Given the composition you are using (34 g potassium nitrate, 26 g sugar, 60 g of water, and wool yarn), here are a few tips to improve the burn rate and consistency:
- Ratio of ingredients: Check that the ratio of potassium nitrate to sugar is correct. The typical ratio for a slow-burning fuse is 60:40 potassium nitrate to sugar by weight.
- Drying the fuse: Properly drying the fuse is critical. After heating at 130°C for 20 minutes, ensure the fuse is fully dry before use. It may require additional drying time.
- Granularity: The consistency of the mixture should be fine and well-combined. Any lumps can cause inconsistent burning.
- Saturate the yarn thoroughly: Make sure the yarn is fully saturated in the mixture, with no dry spots, for even burning.
If the fuse is still not burning correctly after following these tips, consider experimenting with different yarn types, adjusting the proportions of the ingredients slightly, or seeking additional guidance from reliable chemical sources or professionals in the field.