Strontium perchlorate
Strontium perchlorate is a deliquescent white crystalline compound with the formula.
It is a strong oxidizer which gives red flames. It can be used in pyrotechnics; however, usually the more common strontium nitrate is used. Strontium perchlorate has been used in gelled flame compositions where its hygroscopic nature isn't an issue, in a polymerized candle composition that excluded water, and in an experimental high-atmosphere flash powder.
It is also used in Liquid Injection Thrust Vector Control in solid-propellant rockets to enable steering control with a simple fixed nozzle.
Strontium perchlorate has been characterized in multiple hydrated forms; a trihydrate, tetrahydrate and nonahydrate.
Synthesis
Hydrated forms may be prepared by dissolving pure strontium nitrate in an excess of perchloric acid, neutralizing the excess acid with strontium carbonate, centrifuging off solids, and chilling to precipitate crystals.The anhydrous form may be prepared by drying the hydrate at, which gives a yield of 50%, or by the addition of anhydrous perchloric acid to a solution of strontium ion in anhydrous trifluoroacetic acid followed by filtration of the precipitated solid and removal of excess acid under vacuum.