Camphine

Camphine

Camphine lamp

Camphine is a type of fuel that was commonly used in lamps during the 19th century. It is a mixture of equal parts of alcohol and turpentine, which creates a highly flammable liquid. Camphine was widely used as a source of light before the invention of the kerosene lamp.

History

The use of camphine as a fuel source can be traced back to the early 1800s. It was initially used in lamps as an alternative to whale oil, which was becoming increasingly expensive and scarce. Camphine provided a brighter and more efficient light, making it a popular choice for lighting homes, streets, and public spaces.

Composition

Camphine is created by mixing equal parts of alcohol and turpentine. Alcohol, typically ethanol, provides the flammable component, while turpentine acts as a solvent and helps to improve the burning properties of the mixture. The resulting liquid is highly volatile and can easily ignite when exposed to an open flame.

Use in Lamps

Camphine was primarily used as a fuel for lamps during the 19th century. It was commonly used in both household and street lamps, providing a brighter and more reliable source of light compared to previous alternatives. The use of camphine lamps became widespread, especially in urban areas, where they were used for lighting streets and public spaces.

Safety Concerns

While camphine provided an efficient source of light, it also posed significant safety risks. The highly flammable nature of the liquid made it prone to accidents and fires. The use of camphine lamps often resulted in numerous incidents, including explosions and burns. As a result, the popularity of camphine declined as safer alternatives, such as kerosene lamps, were introduced.

Legacy

Although camphine is no longer commonly used as a fuel source, its historical significance cannot be overlooked. It played a crucial role in the development of lighting technology during the 19th century. The use of camphine lamps paved the way for the introduction of safer and more efficient lighting options, ultimately leading to the widespread adoption of kerosene lamps and, later, electric lighting.

See Also

• Kerosene
• Whale oil
• Lamp
• Lighting technology