Wildland resource management proposes to investigate the feasibility of a ground based remote ignition system for use in prescribed burning. The development of this device will enhance the safety of those on the burn, reduce burning costs, (particularly on small acreage burns), and increase the opportunities to burn by widening the conditions under which safe burning can be accomplished. Potassium permanganate, and a delivery system that will eject these capsules into the area to be burned. An injection system will introduce a solution of ethylene glycol and water into the capsule just before being projected into the target area. In addition, we will investigate how to prolong capsule burn time after impact or increase energy released from the capsule. We will survey and evaluate commercially available systems to identify a combination that will be safe, accurate, precise and durable. This combination will be tested. Safety considerations and required licenses will be identified. The final report will detail design specifications, test results, and sources of the supplies and system components. Phase i of the project is budgeted for $26,736 and involves four people, three of whom are prescribed burning specialists, (one has an emphasis on physics), and one materials-mechanical engineer.
