Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/12168
Title: Escalation of fireworks in Malta : environmental forensic evidence from perchlorate in dust fall
Other Titles: Environmental forensic evidence from perchlorate in dust fall
Authors: Pace, Colette
Vella, Alfred J.
Keywords: Fireworks -- Malta
Fireworks industry -- Malta
Environmental forensics -- Malta
Hazardous substances -- Safety measures
Fireworks -- Safety measures
Perchlorates -- Environmental aspects -- Malta
Issue Date: 2016
Publisher: Malta Chamber of Scientists
Citation: Pace, C. & Vella, A.J. (2016). Escalation of fireworks in Malta : environmental forensic evidence from perchlorate in dust fall. Xjenza, 4(1), 4-10
Abstract: Summer in Malta is accompanied by fireworks as part of the numerous (about 85) religious festivals (festa) that occur throughout the period. We attempted to establish whether firework activity is truly following official trade statistics, which imply a decreasing trend, or otherwise. Firework manufacture critically depends on the availability of oxidising agents, two of which (KNO3, KClO3) being controlled by permits but not potassium perchlorate (KClO4) which is freely available. Recent changes in legislation have slightly decreased the quantity of KClO3 and increased that of KNO3 and according to official trade statistics, consumption of KClO4 has decreased from 17 t/a in 2010 to ≈ 2.5 t/a during 2011--2014. However, from levels of perchlorate in dust fall and rate of total deposition we calculated the quantity of KClO4 used during 2012 and obtained ≥ 90 t/a, 36 times the official figure. This situation is serious since the danger of accidental explosion during manufacture escalates as production intensifies. Also, contamination of the environment by firework-waste appears destined to remain high with possible consequent effects on human health.
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar//handle/123456789/12168
Appears in Collections:Scholarly Works - FacSciChe
Scholarly Works - JCChe
Xjenza, 2016, Volume 4, Issue 1
Xjenza, 2016, Volume 4, Issue 1

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