Pharaoh's serpent
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Description
Name used prior to 1900s for an explosive paste containing Mercuric thiocyanate in an aqueous solution of Gum (Schur 1985). When dried, then ignited, the mixture produces a large amount of ash in serpentine shapes. These dry beads of mercuric thiocyanate are called pharaoh's serpent eggs.
Synonyms and Related Terms
pharaoh's serpent eggs
Hazards and Safety
Toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption.
Additional Information
S. Schur, "Conservation Terminology: A Review of Past & Current Nomenclature of Materials", Technology and Conservation, 1985.