How To Make Sugar Rockets

Summary

In this DIY project, the creator demonstrates how to craft a homemade rocket motor using inexpensive materials like powdered sugar, kitty litter, and PVC tubing. The goal is to launch a pool noodle rocket over 2,000 feet high for under $0.50. The script details the process of blending potassium nitrate with sugar, compacting clay for a plug, and adding a white mix before creating a nozzle. Safety precautions are emphasized, and viewers are encouraged to join local rocket clubs for guidance on permits and regulations.

Takeaways

• 🚀 The project aims to create a homemade rocket motor using inexpensive materials to achieve a launch height of over 2,000 feet at a cost less than $0.50 each.
• 🛒 Materials needed include powdered sugar, potassium nitrate, kitty litter, 3/4” PVC tubing, and a 3/4” oak dowel.
• 🔨 The oak dowel serves as both a ramming rod and a template for creating the rocket motor.
• 💣 The rocket fuel is made by blending potassium nitrate and powdered sugar to form a pyrotechnic composition that should be handled with care.
• 👩‍🍳 A small blender is used to grind the materials, but it's important to mix the final fuel by hand to avoid accidental ignition.
• 🗜️ Kitty litter, specifically bentonite clay, is used as a compacting agent in the rocket motor construction.
• 📏 The oak dowel has markings to indicate the correct thickness of the clay and fuel layers in the PVC casing.
• 🔩 The process of compacting involves using the oak dowel and a rubber mallet to ensure the layers are tightly packed.
• 🕊️ The final step includes creating a nozzle for the rocket motor using a 7/32” drill bit, which is crucial for the motor's function.
• 🏜️ Safety is emphasized by testing the rocket motor in a remote, safe location away from people and property.
• ⏱️ The script mentions future modifications including a built-in time delay and parachute ejection charge for the rocket's recovery system.
• 📝 The creator encourages viewers to seek local rocket clubs for guidance on safety and regulations before attempting such projects.

Q & A

What was the primary goal of the project described in the script?

The primary goal of the project was to create a homemade rocket motor using powdered sugar, kitty litter, and other inexpensive materials, with the aim of launching a rocket over 2,000 feet high for less than $0.50 each.

What materials are needed to start this project according to the script?

To start the project, one would need powdered sugar, potassium nitrate, kitty litter, 3/4" PVC tubing, a 3/4" oak dowel, and a small blender for mixing.

Why is the oak dowel used in the project?

The oak dowel serves as both a ramming rod to compact the materials inside the PVC tube and a template to ensure the correct dimensions of the rocket motor.

What is the purpose of blending the potassium nitrate in the script?

Blending the potassium nitrate turns it into a fine, fluffy white powder that resembles powdered sugar, which is necessary for the rocket fuel mixture.

How much powdered sugar is required for the rocket fuel mixture according to the script?

The script calls for exactly 35 grams of powdered sugar to be added to the mixture.

Why is it important to mix the pyrotechnic composition by hand instead of using the blender?

Mixing by hand is important to prevent the pyrotechnic composition from igniting due to the heat generated by the blender, as it is sensitive to heat at this stage.

What is the role of kitty litter in the rocket motor construction?

The kitty litter, which is primarily bentonite clay, is used to create a compact clay plug at the bottom of the PVC tube, serving as part of the rocket motor structure.

How thick should the clay plug and the white mix be in the rocket motor?

Both the clay plug and the white mix should be 3/4" thick, as indicated by the markings on the oak dowel.

What safety precautions are mentioned in the script for handling the fine powder during the project?

The script advises wearing a mask or performing the task outside to avoid inhaling the fine powder, which is not good to breathe in.

What is the purpose of the 7/32" drill bit in the rocket motor construction?

The 7/32" drill bit is used to create the nozzle of the rocket motor by carefully drilling into the rammed powder tube to the correct depth, as indicated by the markings on the ramming rod.

What additional components are mentioned for future modifications of the rocket motors?

Future modifications include adding a built-in time delay and a parachute ejection charge to the rocket motors for a safe recovery system.

What advice does the script give to those interested in attempting this project?

The script strongly advises looking up local rocket clubs for guidance on safety and regulations, ensuring one has the right permits, location, and common sense before attempting to launch the rockets.

Outlines

00:00

🚀 DIY Rocket Motor Project

The script details a project where the creator attempts to construct a homemade rocket motor using inexpensive and easily accessible materials such as powdered sugar, kitty litter, and PVC tubing. The goal is to launch a rocket higher than 2,000 feet at a cost significantly lower than commercial F-class rocket motors. The process involves blending potassium nitrate and powdered sugar to form a pyrotechnic mixture, compacting kitty litter as a plug in the PVC tube, and carefully adding the pyrotechnic mix. A nozzle is created by drilling into the filled tube, and safety precautions are emphasized throughout the process.

05:01

🛰️ Rocket Launch Safety and Community

In the second paragraph, the script shifts focus to the importance of safety and community involvement when launching rockets. The creator urges viewers to seek permits and consult with local rocket clubs to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards. The creator also shares their excitement about the project and hints at future rocket-related videos, encouraging viewers to subscribe for updates. The emphasis is on responsible experimentation and leveraging the knowledge of experienced communities to avoid legal and safety issues.

Keywords

💡F-class rocket motors

F-class rocket motors refer to a specific size and power category of rocket propellants. In the video, they are mentioned as being expensive at $17 each, which motivates the creator to seek a cheaper alternative. The project's goal is to create a homemade version that can launch a rocket over 2,000 feet high at a significantly lower cost.

💡Powdered sugar

Powdered sugar is a key ingredient in the homemade rocket fuel mixture. It is used due to its fine, fluffy texture, which, when combined with other ingredients, forms a pyrotechnic composition. The script describes blending it with potassium nitrate to create a mixture that resembles the consistency of the powdered sugar itself.

💡Potassium nitrate

Potassium nitrate is a chemical compound used in the script as an oxidizer in the rocket fuel. It is essential for the combustion process and is blended to a fine powder to increase its reactivity. The video mentions using 65 grams of potassium nitrate as part of the fuel mixture.

💡Kitty litter

Kitty litter, specifically the cheap, unscented, and dye-free variety made of bentonite clay, is used in the video as a component of the rocket motor. It is ground into a powder and compacted in the PVC tube to form a plug, which is crucial for the rocket's propulsion system.

💡PVC tubing

PVC tubing, specifically schedule 40, is used as the casing for the homemade rocket motor. The script describes cutting the tubing into 5-inch sections and using it to contain the fuel mixture and kitty litter plug. It is a critical part of the rocket's structure.

💡Oak dowel

An oak dowel serves as both a ramming rod and a template in the construction of the rocket motor. It is used to compact the fuel mixture and kitty litter plug within the PVC tube to the desired thickness, ensuring a tight and even fit.

💡Pyrotechnic composition

The term 'pyrotechnic composition' refers to the mixture of powdered sugar and potassium nitrate, which is capable of igniting and producing an explosion when heated. The video emphasizes the need for careful handling of this mixture due to its reactive nature.

💡Bentonite clay

Bentonite clay is the primary component of the cheap kitty litter used in the video. It is chosen for its binding properties and lack of additives, which makes it ideal for use in the rocket motor's construction. The clay is ground into a fine powder and compacted to form a plug within the PVC casing.

💡Core burning rocket

A core burning rocket is a type of rocket that burns its propellant from the center outward. The video describes using a 7/32" drill bit to create a nozzle in the rammed powder tube, which is essential for the core burning mechanism of the homemade rocket motor.

💡Recovery system

The recovery system mentioned in the script refers to the parachute ejection charge and built-in time delay designed to safely bring the rocket back to the ground after launch. This system is crucial for ensuring the rocket can be reused and for maintaining safety during the launch.

💡Propellant

Propellant is the substance that burns to produce thrust in a rocket. In the context of the video, the homemade rocket fuel mixture, consisting of powdered sugar, potassium nitrate, and kitty litter, serves as the propellant. The script mentions having about 20 grams of propellant left over after making two 'E45 equivalent' motors.

Highlights

The project aims to create a homemade rocket motor using powdered sugar and kitty litter costing less than $0.50 each.

F-class rocket motors are expensive at $17 each, prompting the search for a cost-effective alternative.

Materials required include powdered sugar, potassium nitrate, kitty litter, PVC tubing, and an oak dowel.

PVC tubing is cut into 5" sections, and an oak dowel is used as a ramming rod and template for the rocket motor.

A small blender is used to process potassium nitrate into a fine powder resembling powdered sugar.

35 grams of powdered sugar is added to the potassium nitrate and mixed by hand for 3 minutes to ensure a thorough blend.

Kitty litter, primarily bentonite clay, is chosen for its lack of additives and cost-effectiveness.

The kitty litter is ground into a powder in the blender before being compacted into the PVC tube.

A clay plug is formed at the bottom of the tube using the oak dowel and a rubber mallet.

The white rocket fuel mix is compacted slowly within the PVC tube to avoid ignition.

A second clay plug is added on top of the white mix, creating an end cap for the rocket motor.

A 7/32" drill bit is used to create the nozzle, ensuring careful drilling to avoid accidental ignition.

The rocket motor is tested in a remote desert location to ensure safety.

The homemade rocket motor successfully launches to a height of 2,300 feet.

Plans for future modifications include a built-in time delay and parachute ejection system.

The project encourages viewers to join local rocket clubs for guidance on safety and regulations.

A 100-gram batch of the homemade propellant can create two 'E45 equivalent' motors with some leftover.

The project demonstrates the potential of repurposing household items into powerful and cost-effective rocket motors.

Transcripts

In a previous project I went to the hobby store and picked up some F-class rocket motors,

to try launching a rocket, made out of pool noodles. Now these motors are amazing, but

the catch is they’re $17 each. So in this project let’s see if we can use powdered sugar and

kitty litter, to make a homemade version, that will rocket up over 2,000 feet high,

and cost less than $0.50 make.

To start this project we’ll need powdered sugar, potassium nitrate, and a cheap bag of kitty

litter. We’re also going to need 3/4” PVC tubing and a 3/4” oak dowel. This is

schedule 40 PVC, and you can see I’ve cut the tube into sections 5” long, exactly.

The dowel is twice as long as that, and you can see if we push it inside the tube, it’s

actually a pretty good fit. This will be a ramming rod, and a template as well. And the

markings you see on the stick are designed to make the simplest form of an “E45 equivalent”

rocket motor. The markings are actually in reverse order to how we’re going to build

it, but you’ll see why it needs to be that way in just a minute. Alright, let’s get

ready to make the rocket fuel, and to start off we’re going to need a small blender

that we’re not afraid to damage. I found this one at a local thrift shop for $5, and

the first thing we have to do is measure out 65 grams of potassium nitrate. I typically

get mine as a special brand of stump remover, and it’s a pretty fine grain to begin with,

but you can see that after blending it up for about 20 seconds, it becomes a fluffy

white powder, that looks a lot like powdered sugar. Now speaking of powdered sugar, we’re

going to need some of that next. So let’s zero out our scale, and add exactly 35 grams

of sugar to the mix. At this point the powder is a pyrotechnic composition that could ignite

with too much heat, so instead of mixing this up with the blender, we’re going to have

to shake it by hand for about 3 minutes. This should give it enough time to blend completely,

and that’s important because we need this white mix to be as intimate as possible. Alright,

our rocket fuel is finished, so let’s transfer it to another container to free up the blender,

because now it’s time to bring out the kitty litter. This 7 lb bag was only $0.98, and

surprisingly, the cheap kind is the best kind, because it doesn’t have any fragrances or

dyes added to it. It’s just a big bag full of bentonite clay, which is probably why the

stuff is as cheap as dirt. Alright let’s throw a handful of clay into the blender for

10-20 seconds so it grinds into a power. Holding the blender at a bit of an angle helps mix

it better, and reduces the load, on the motor as well. Now when it’s time to remove the

lid, it’s important to wear a mask, or do it outside. Because you can see the powder

is so fine it escapes like a gas, and its not really good to breathe this stuff in.

Ok, we’ve got everything we need, so let’s get to work putting it all together. Place

one of the PVC casings on a slab of concrete, and drop in a third of a tablespoon of kitty

litter. Now let’s make sure we keep the tube firmly on the concrete so the clay doesn’t

spill out the bottom, then slide the oak ramming rod inside, and smack the top firmly with

a rubber mallet. It’s going to need about 5-10 good whacks, to compact it as tight as

we need it. And you can see it will make a nice little clay plug, at the bottom of the

tube. Let’s repeat this process 2 more times until the plug is 3/4” thick, which you

can see is conveniently indicated by the marking on the stick.

If too much clay gets packed in, no worries. You

can just twist the dowel around a few times to loosen the top layer, then pour out the

extra clay until it lines up perfectly. At this point, we’re ready to add the white

mix. This stuff is extremely light and fluffy, so it’s important to push the ram rod down,

very slowly. Once it’s compacted by hand

though, we can ram it with the mallet, just like we did the clay, until the rammed “white

mix” lines up perfectly with the next marking. The last step for this simple motor is a kitty

litter end cap. This will be 3/4” thick as well, the same as the one we made before.

But here you can see there’s still a little room left in the tube, and you’ll see what

that’s for in another project video. Ok our rocket motor is just about finished. The

only thing left to do is make the nozzle. For these motors I use a 7/32” drill bit,

which happens to be the exact length and width we need to turn this rammed powder tube, into

a core burning rocket. Now to gauge the depth on how far in to drill, we can use the markings

on the ram rod to measure exactly where the white mix ends, then mark the drill bit at

the point where it lines up with the clay. Now it’s really important to drill this

out very slowly and carefully because, remember, this is a rocket motor, and you don’t want

to set it off by accident. I’m drilling mine out by hand, so it’s easy to control

any heat generated, from the friction. When the marking on the bit lines up with the bottom

of the casing, the rocket motor is finished and should look something like this. Now to

test the power of these motors I went way out into the dessert, miles and miles away

from any people, property or anything flammable. When this one lit off I was blown away by

what it could do. The motor, just shot up 2,300 feet high. And of course if we’ve

got rockets going that high, we’re going to need a way to deploy, some kind of a recovery

system. So the next step, is to give our rocket motors a built in time delay, and a parachute

ejection charge. The 100 gram batch in this video is enough to make two “E45 equivalent”

motors, with about 20 grams of propellent left over. Which is what I mix with baking

soda, to slow the burn, and create a 5 second delay. So watch for those modifications in

another video. Well now you know how to repurpose some simple household items, into powerful

hobby rocket motors, for less than $0.50 each. Just make sure you have the right permits,

location, and common sense before you try launching them. Well that’s it for now.

If you liked this project, perhaps you’ll like some of my others. Check them out at

www.thekingofrandom.com

If you are even considering the thought of trying to build one of these, please promise

me you’ll do one thing first. Get on google and do a search for local rocket clubs. They

don’t cost much, and they’ll have the best idea of how to keep you out of trouble

with the FAA, and make sure nobody gets hurt. Having said all that, I hope you felt the

same excitement for this project that I did. I’ve spent 4 years playing with different

variations of sugar motors to get to this point, so I’m super excited to finally be

able to present this to you. Now going forward, you can expect to see a few more rocket related

videos, and then we’re getting into metal melting projects, so please make sure you’re

subscribed to my channel because I’d really like to see you around for those project videos.

I’ll talk to you then.