This paper describes the characteristics of the microcalorimeter and method used in compatibility tests for pyrotechnics. The results are compared with those of the traditional VST method. To demonstrate the accuracy of the results, we analysed the surface structure of the tested materials using SEM. The testing conditions using the microcalorimetry method approach the actual storage conditions more than in the other methods, and the conclusion based on microcalorimetry is more reliable than that of traditional methods.