• Question: your job looks so cool. what kind of explosions have you made [like what chemichals]

    Asked by orla to Alison on 7 Mar 2019.
    • Photo: Alison Dufresne

      Alison Dufresne answered on 7 Mar 2019:

      My favourite engines use methane as their fuel and hydrogen peroxide as their oxidiser. Peroxide looks like water but it packs a huge punch when provoked!! I call it fire water 🙂 Other chemical engines I’ve worked on use kerosene or propane and oxygen. They’re fun but peroxide engines are my faovurite.
      I also have a soft spot for electrothermal engines. We have one called Comet that’s basically flying steam kettle! It’s really simple, just water and a heater. Works well but there’s no flames so it’s not as exciting.
      My job can be stressful so thank you for reminding me that it is super cool! I’m going to go into work with a smile on my face today because of you. 🙂

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