Continuing the chemistry thread (Hey, its Friday!) Thermite consists of iron oxide and powdered aluminum. Will burn through just about anything. Saw a demonstration down on the Mall (DC). Person used an aluminum tube, with rusty steel wool. Ignited it with a propane torch, then pushed it through a chunk (12 inches thick) of concrete. Of course a couple feet of the pipe wasn't there anymore either... Left a lasting impression on me! How it works: The iron oxide provides the oxygen. Add heat, and the oxygen is released in quantity and in proximity to the aluminum which then oxidizes VERY rapidly, producing immense quantities of heat (1500 degrees or more..I forget if it was F or C). |
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