Hexamine fuel tablet
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A hexamine fuel tablet (or heat tablet, Esbit) is a form of
Esbit is a
Uses
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8a/Pocket-size_collapsible_cooker.jpg/220px-Pocket-size_collapsible_cooker.jpg)
The tablets are used for cooking by campers, militaries, and relief organizations. They are often used with disposable metal stoves that are included with field ration packs. Another common use is to provide a heat source for model steam engines, such as those manufactured by Wilesco and Mamod, and other external combustion engines such as Stirling engines and pop pop boats.
Advantages and disadvantages
Hexamine is prepared by the reaction of formaldehyde and ammonia. In an acidic environment hexamine is converted to toxic formaldehyde, where the main hazard for toxicity is by ingestion.
As with trioxane, hexamine has an almost unlimited shelf life if stored properly, in a sealed dry container. However, the heat given off cannot be easily adjusted, so water can be boiled, but cooking requiring simmering is more difficult. Tablets are a powerful stove fuel (30.0 MJ/kg), and are sensitive to wind and dampness.
Esbit's Safety Data Sheet states combustion can create
As hexamine is a precursor for the simplest synthesis of the chemical explosive RDX,[2] its possession is tightly regulated in the United Kingdom.[3]
See also
References
- ^ Warning leaflet packed with Mamod brand fuel tablets
- .
- ^ "Licensing for home users of poisons and explosive precursors". Home Office. 2023-05-19. Retrieved 2024-06-15.