pyrophoric alloy
Noun: A pyrophoric alloy is a type of metal mixture that produces sparks when it is struck or scraped against a hard material like steel. This property makes it useful for applications where a controlled spark is needed, such as in the flints of lighters.
This term is a technical, compound noun used primarily in materials science, chemistry, and engineering contexts. It refers specifically to the material's reactive property (pyrophoric) and its composition (alloy).
Examples: * The classic example of a pyrophoric alloy is a mixture of cerium and iron, commonly known as "ferrocerium." * The invention of a reliable pyrophoric alloy was crucial for the development of modern pocket lighters. * Researchers are studying new pyrophoric alloys for use in specialized ignition systems.
- Technical Specification: In technical documents, the exact composition (e.g., percentages of lanthanides like cerium, lanthanum, and iron) is often specified when discussing a pyrophoric alloy.
- Safety Context: The term is used in safety guidelines to classify materials that can ignite spontaneously upon exposure to air when finely divided.
- Ferrocerium: (n) A specific, common type of pyrophoric alloy used in lighter flints and fire-starting tools.
- Mischmetal: (n) An alloy of rare-earth elements, which can be pyrophoric and is often a component in pyrophoric alloys.
- Flint: (n) While traditionally a hard stone, in modern contexts "flint" often refers to a rod made of a pyrophoric alloy.
- Spark-producing alloy: A descriptive synonym emphasizing the effect.
- Ignition alloy: A synonym focusing on the alloy's function.
This is a specialized technical term with a single, precise meaning. It should not be confused with general flammable or combustible materials. The key characteristic is that ignition requires mechanical action (striking or scratching), not just exposure to air or a flame.
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an alloy that emits sparks when struck or scratched with steel; used in lighter flints
