What can I use for fuel in my homemade rocket?

I want to build my own dry fuel rocket from scratch and I can't find a thing on the web to tell me what to use for fuel.

Rocket fuel needs to be a substance that burns fast but does not explode - that's why you can't use gunpowder. The most basic rocket fuel is usually about 71% nitrate, 25% carbon, and 4% sulfur. Do not attempt to mix up anything yourself!

You will need to purchase a commercially-made rocket engine. For first time rocket makers, the best engine to use is type A8-3. They are the lowest power but don't worry, they still go so high that you lose track of them on a clear day. There are also B and C type engines, but for those you need some kind of binoculars and a couple of extra friends so that you can keep track of your rocket. Don't forget to put a stop inside your rocket so that the engine doesn't just shoot right through it! It helps if you buy the rocket engines before you construct your rocket so that you can tell exactly how big your rocket body needs to be.

Always make sure your rocket follows NAR safety guidelines. The rest of the NAR website also has lots of helpful information about making your own rocket from scratch, as does this previous question.

July 2004, Sabrina Stierwalt (more by Sabrina Stierwalt) (Like this Answer)

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