Theo Nash
Alcohol is flammable, but the flammability of alcohol depends on its proof and form. Typically, alcohol that is 80 proof or higher (ABV of 40% or above) is flammable. However, the flash point of alcohol, the temperature at which it will ignite, is also influenced by other components in the mixture. For example, cask-strength whiskey, which is 50-60% alcohol by volume, will quickly catch fire, while common whiskey, which averages around 40% ABV, will only burn a small flame that can be extinguished with a light breath.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Flammability | Depends on the proof of the alcohol. Anything above 80 proof (ABV of 40% or above) is flammable. |
| Flash Point | The temperature at which the material will ignite when exposed to a flame. Alcohol has a low flash point. |
| Fire Extinguishing | Alcohol-based fires can be extinguished by adding water or smothering the fire. |
| Vapor Ignition | Alcohol vapor, not the liquid, catches fire. Warmer alcohol releases more vapors, making it easier to ignite. |
| Examples | Absinthe (45-74% ABV), Whiskey (40% ABV), Vodka (40% ABV), Gin (40% ABV), Tequila (40% ABV) |
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What You'll Learn
Alcohol with 40% ABV or above is flammable
Alcohol is flammable, but the flammability of alcohol depends on its proof and form. Typically, alcohol that is 80 proof or higher (ABV of 40% or above) is flammable. However, not all ethanol-based products burn the same way. For example, wine and low-alcohol liqueurs will ignite in a hot sautee pan, while higher-alcohol liquors like vodka, at 40% ABV, will have trouble igniting outside on cold days.
The old English 'proof' system defined 100 proof as 50% alcohol, which will burn if mixed sufficiently with air. A higher proof alcohol, at 63% and above, will light instantly. The flash point of a liquid is the temperature at which it will ignite when met with a flame, and alcohol has a very low flash point. As alcohol heats up, more vapour is released, making it easier to light.
Alcohol is used as a fuel in fires and for pyrotechnics, and alcohol-based sanitizers can have a high enough percentage of ethanol or isopropyl to burn in a fire. However, it is important to use and store alcohol responsibly, especially in large quantities, as spilled alcohol has caused large forest fires.
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Liquids with low flash points ignite easily
The flash point of a liquid is normally an indication of how susceptible it is to ignition. Liquids with a flash point below 0°C, for example, can ignite at any temperature and must be treated with extreme caution. Flammable liquids, as defined by the Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code, are those that give off enough flammable vapours at temperatures of 60 °C (closed-cup test) or 65.6 °C (open-cup test) to ignite in the presence of an ignition source.
The flash point of a liquid is determined by heating the liquid in test equipment and measuring the temperature at which a flash will be obtained when a small flame is introduced in the vapour zone above the surface of the liquid. Liquids are classified as either flammable or combustible by their flash points. Flammable liquids will ignite and burn easily at normal working temperatures, whereas combustible liquids will burn at temperatures that are usually above working temperatures.
In the context of alcohol, it is important to note that it is the alcohol vapour that catches fire, not the liquid itself. The amount of vapour produced by alcohol increases as the temperature of the alcohol increases, making it easier to ignite. Therefore, the higher the alcohol content of a liquid, the lower the flash point, and the easier it is to ignite. For example, cask-strength whiskey, which typically contains 50-60% alcohol by volume, will quickly light on fire and sustain a decent burn. On the other hand, common liquors that average around 40% alcohol by volume will only burn a small flame that can be extinguished with a light breath.
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Absinthe ranges from 45-74% ABV and will catch fire
Absinthe is a strong alcoholic spirit with a typical ABV range of 45–74%. It is derived from several plants, including wormwood, green anise, and sweet fennel, and is known for its distinctive flavour and high alcohol content. While it is not the strongest liquor available, with some vodkas and rums exceeding 100% ABV, absinthe's high ABV and unique blend of ingredients make it a potent spirit.
The practice of lighting absinthe on fire, known as the Absinthe Fire Ritual, has gained popularity in modern times, particularly in bars and cocktail culture. However, it is important to note that burning absinthe is not recommended and poses significant safety risks. The high alcohol content of absinthe, with an ABV ranging from 45% to 74%, means that it can easily catch fire and pose a fire hazard if not handled properly.
The act of setting absinthe on fire is primarily for visual effect and excitement, as it was created by Czech absinthe producers to promote their product. The ritual involves lighting the absinthe glass on fire, which can also extend to the person drinking it if not careful. While it may seem impressive, the fire can alter the delicate flavour of the spirit, detracting from the overall drinking experience. The heat from the fire can damage or change the complex blend of botanicals, including anise, wormwood, and fennel, that give absinthe its distinctive taste.
Additionally, the Absinthe Fire Ritual lacks historical authenticity. There is little evidence to suggest that absinthe was traditionally consumed in this manner during its peak in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Instead, enthusiasts are encouraged to explore traditional methods of absinthe preparation, such as the louche ritual, which emphasises the spirit's nuanced flavours and aromatic qualities in a safer and more authentic manner.
It is worth noting that the flammability of alcohol depends on various factors, including temperature and vapour density. Colder alcohol produces less vapour, making it less flammable, while higher temperatures increase vapour production and flammability. Additionally, the flash point of a liquid, the temperature at which it ignites, is crucial. In the case of absinthe, with an ABV range of 45–74%, the flash point is low enough for the vapours to ignite easily, especially when exposed to an open flame or heat source.
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Beer and wine are not flammable
It is a common misconception that all alcohol is flammable. While some liquors with an alcohol content of over 50% can be set on fire, beer and wine are not flammable.
Beer typically has an alcohol content of around 5%, and wine usually contains around 14% alcohol. Both of these beverages have a much lower alcohol content than the 50% required for a liquid to be flammable. Additionally, the flash point of a liquid, or the temperature at which it will ignite when met with a flame, also plays a role in its flammability. The flash point of alcohol is very low, but the other components mixed into beer and wine have much higher flash points, making it unlikely that these beverages will ignite.
Although beer and wine are not flammable, they can still be used to put out fires. In fact, beer can be especially effective for this purpose. The rule of thumb is that liquor becomes flammable at over 100 proof, or 50% alcohol. However, temperature also plays a major factor. For example, wine and low-alcohol liqueurs will ignite in a hot saute pan, while higher-alcohol liquors may struggle to ignite outside on cold days.
The flammability of alcohol also depends on whether the alcohol is in liquid or vapor form. While the liquid form of alcohol is not flammable, the vapors can be. As alcohol heats up, it releases vapors that can catch fire. This is why wine can sometimes ignite during cooking—it's the alcohol vapors that catch fire, not the wine itself. However, even in this situation, the amount of alcohol in wine is so low that it will likely only produce a short flash rather than a full-out flame.
In conclusion, despite the common misconception, beer and wine are not flammable. Their alcohol content is too low, and the flash points of the other components in these beverages are too high for them to ignite easily. While they may not be effective for starting fires, beer and wine can actually be useful for putting them out.
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Water can extinguish alcohol fires
Alcohol fires can be dangerous and challenging to extinguish. The flashpoint of alcohol, the temperature at which it ignites, is relatively low, and alcohol vapors are highly flammable. The vapor, not the liquid, catches fire, and the warmer the alcohol, the more vapor is produced. Therefore, temperature plays a significant factor in the flammability of alcohol.
Water can be used to extinguish alcohol fires, but it is essential to use the right technique. Pouring water on an alcohol fire is not recommended as it can cause the fire to spread or explode. Instead, spraying water is a more effective method. When sprayed, the water will mix with the alcohol and cause it to dissolve, thus extinguishing the fire. This technique is particularly useful for alcohol stove fires, where the vapors can accumulate and explode in enclosed spaces. However, it is important to note that water is not suitable for extinguishing ethanol fires, a type of alcohol fire.
For small alcohol fires, smothering the flames is another recommended method. This can be done by covering the fire with a smothering ring, a cup, pan, or pot, or by throwing sand or dirt on the fire. It is crucial to have these tools readily available before lighting an alcohol stove to ensure a quick response in case of a fire.
Additionally, specific fire extinguishers are designed for alcohol fires. Class B fire extinguishers and alcohol-resistant (AR) foams are suitable for this purpose. Understanding the properties of alcohol and its behavior in a fire is essential for effectively responding to and extinguishing alcohol fires.
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Frequently asked questions
Alcohol is flammable when it is 80 proof or higher (ABV of 40% or above).
Water can be used to put out an alcohol fire. However, it is important to note that water should not be used to extinguish an oil or petroleum fire.
Oils and petroleum should not be used to extinguish an alcohol fire.
