This simple rocket fuel uses potassium nitrate as an oxidizer to allow sugar to burn rapidly. The product of combustion expands energetically, and this makes it an effective fuel for model rockets.

After your fuel is made, it can be ignited by coming in contact with any flame.

Project Steps

First, make sure both your sugar and potassium nitrate are in granulated form. We cannot have any chunks.

You can buy sugar in granulated form, but chunks may have built up; if so, you’ll have to crush those with your spoon.

Spectracide stump remover is 100% potassium nitrate and comes in granulated form. (Seen at left.)

Pour your sugar and potassium nitrate into a bowl. The ratio for the fuel must be 1:2; one part sugar and two parts potassium nitrate. Mix thoroughly.

Finally, pour your fuel into an airtight container, and keep it away from sources of continued heat.

Conclusion

Make sure you have sugar and potassium nitrate in a 1:2 ratio; one part sugar and two parts potassium nitrate.