What makes safety matches "safe"? | FerrariChat
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What makes safety matches "safe"?

Discussion in 'Other Off Topic Forum' started by 2000YELLOW360, Jan 12, 2006.

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  1. 2000YELLOW360

    2000YELLOW360 F1 World Champ

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    #1 2000YELLOW360, Jan 12, 2006
    3 reasons...can you name them?

    Answers tomorrow.
     
  2. Etcetera

    Etcetera Two Time F1 World Champ
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    #2 Etcetera, Jan 12, 2006
    1)The accelerant's chemical composition used in saftey matches does not deteriorate over time in such a manner that would allow the spontaneous combustion of the product.

    2)The force required to ignite the match is very high, and therefore highly unlikely to ignite by accident.

    3)No gummint spy devices contained therein.
     
  3. Supra

    Supra Karting

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    #3 Supra, Jan 12, 2006
    Watching the Discovery channel eh?

    It's essentially Animal fat and adhesive that prevent the chemicals from igniting unless struck against the right material that would produce enough friction. Oh, and there's no more white phosphorus in them these days.
     
  4. Texas Forever

    Texas Forever Eight Time F1 World Champ
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    #4 Texas Forever, Jan 12, 2006
    As part of your 12-step group for a new, kinder and gentler Art, this post is not a bad first step. Just remember, we are all here for you. :)

    Dale
     
  5. frefan

    frefan F1 Veteran

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    #5 frefan, Jan 12, 2006
    What makes them safe? The fact that I don't have any..
     
  6. 2000YELLOW360

    2000YELLOW360 F1 World Champ

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    #6 2000YELLOW360, Jan 12, 2006
    Great reponses, even Dale's. :)

    Yes, I watched the Discovery channel show for a little bit. Strangely, I got the following (somewhat different) reasons:
    - There is a chemical coating on the matchstick that suppresses the glow once you extinguish the flame. So, once a match is discarded, it is less likely to cause a fire.

    - You need two combustible materials to light a match head. One is now on the striking strip, and only one is on the match head. Since they are separate, the matches cannot be lit accidentally (at least, not easily). You have to scrape them on the strip on the side of the matchbox or matchbook to get them to burst into flame.

    - Phosporous is no longer used, so workers at the factory no longer get the disease that causes their mouth and jaw bones to deteriorate. Sometimes, it even led to death. It was called fossy jaw.
     
  7. pistole

    pistole Formula Junior

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    #7 pistole, Jan 12, 2006
    I seriously, fecking , learnt sumthin new today.
     
  8. PeterS

    PeterS Five Time F1 World Champ
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    #8 PeterS, Jan 12, 2006
    The very best use for safety matches is when you are peeling or chopping onions. Hold a couple in your mouth, strike side out. Don't ask me why, but if you do this, your eyes will not water up!
     
  9. 2000YELLOW360

    2000YELLOW360 F1 World Champ

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    #9 2000YELLOW360, Jan 12, 2006
    I guess they absorb the chemical that causes your eyes to water. I did not know that. Thanks.
     

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