Smokeless Powder Storage and Preservation

[wIg SpLiTtEr]

So here's the deal guys. I have a quite a few 1lb'ers that Im looking to consolidate/blend together. I've been debating on what the best possible container would be to preserve my powder while avoiding adverse effects in the long run. That being said, what after-market containers are you guys using to store bulk powder??? I prefer a symmetrical container for stacking/organizing purposes. I can get my hands on the grey colored cylindrical concrete molds that are light-resistant, but, the lids aren't exactly air tight. Also, can someone please provide me with a list of elements that adversely affect smokeless powder, in order of importance, with humidity probably being #1. Lastly, why do powder companies package powder in light-resistant containers?? This one gets me..

Thanks

 

[sawgunner2001]

I've re-used empty 4 and 8 pound jugs to mix one pounders in. I would imagine any clean, airtight, and opaque container would be suitable.

The reason smokeless powder is packaged in opaque containers is because sunlight has a degenerative effect upon the powder. I don't know the science behind it, I just know that it does.

 

[waste_knot]

Heat is probably the biggest factor. Sunlight is the second. I don't think nitrocellulose/DTN powders absorb much moisture. I'm still shooting some Norma 1010 power which they stopped producing in 1960. Shoots like ww231 in a 45 ACP. I also have some 4895 from the 70's that making the "Red death dust" when you open the can.
This is from a SAAMI brochure.
"Although modern smokeless powders contain stabilizers and are
basically free from deterioration under proper storage conditions"
http://www.saami.org/specifications_...ess_Powder.pdf

 

[wIg SpLiTtEr]

So does that mean artificial light has the same effect as UV light?