Non-lethal marking composition, projectile, and cartridge

Abstract

A non-lethal marking projectile is disclosed. The marking projectile includes a frangible polymeric shell that has an interior cavity and is configured to engage rifling in a barrel so that the marking projectile spins when fired through the barrel. The marking projectile further includes a non-aqueous shear-thinning marking composition within the interior cavity of the polymeric shell. The marking composition comprises an organic solvent, a thickener, a surfactant, and an optional colorant. The marking composition is stable over time and across a wide range of operating conditions. A non-lethal firearm cartridge is also provided and comprises the marking projectile disposed in the mouth of a casing, and a propelling system adapted to expel the projectile from the casing and through a barrel when fired from a firearm.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.