Chlorates and perchlorates are among the most often used oxidisers in pyrotechnics. Especially potassium perchlorate, KClO₄, potassium chlorate KClO₃, ammonium perchlorate, NH₄ClO₄, and barium chlorate BaClO₃ are used extensively. Chlorates and perchlorates are chemically related but from a pyrotechnical standpoint perchlorates are generally safer to use. Chlorates require special handling. Mixtures made with tend to be more sensitive than similar mixtures based on perchlorates and some may ignite spontaneously. Potassium chlorate is extensively used commercially since it is cheaper than potassium perchlorate, and many accidents have happened that might have been prevented if the corresponding perchlorate was used instead. The use of chlorates is therefore not recommended. If you do decide to use them, make sure you really understand what you are getting involved with.

The amateur pyrotechnist can prepare chlorates and perchlorates at home with some effort. Homemade chemicals are usually more expensive than commercially produced chemicals and it is ofcourse laborous, but taking shipping costs into account, the fact that perchlorates and chlorates are sometimes quite hard to obtain in most countries and their usefullness in pyrotechnics it may pay to try to make your own. Chlorates are the easiest to prepare, but again, the use of chlorates is not recommended for amateur use.

The information is split up in three sections, one on chlorates, one on perchlorates, and one of analysing the products of your efforts. The most commonly used method to prepare both chlorates and perchlorates is the electrochemical method, which is described best in the text on chlorate synthesis. The text on perchlorate synthesis often refers to it.