How to Make a Hydrogen Torch

A hydrogen torch burns hotter and cleaner than a traditional blow torch.

Hydrogen water torches are similar to blow torches, but they work at much higher temperatures. One of the major advantages of using a hydrogen torch vs. a traditional blow torch is that there is no soot byproduct. Instead, the hydrogen torch produces just water while working at temperatures that can weld refractory metals a normal torch can't. Best of all, this incredibly powerful torch costs much less than a traditional torch. You can even make one yourself using materials available to the average consumer.

Things You'll Need

• 6 volt battery
• Fine grade sandpaper
• Wire
• 9 volt battery
• Glass container
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 18-inch neoprene tube (IV tubing, available at medical supply stores)
• Plastic wrap
• Steel wool
• Basketball pump needle (available at sporting good stores)

Instructions

1. Open a 6 volt lantern battery and take out the carbon rods. Clean the carbon rods with fine grade sandpaper.

2. Wrap a piece of wire around each of the carbon rods, and attach the other end of each wire to a contact on a 9 volt battery.

3. Fill a glass container with two cups of water and a teaspoon of salt. Insert the carbon rods, with the wires hanging out and the 9 volt battery resting outside the container. Bubbles will start to form in the water.

4. Put an 18-inch neoprene tube at the top of the glass container just above the water line, and seal the opening of the container around the tube with plastic wrap.

5. Fill the end of your neoprene tube with steel wool packed as tightly as possible, and then insert a basketball pump needle into the tube.

Tips & Warnings

• When you are ready to use your hydrogen torch, light the end of the basketball pump needle with a match.

• Wear safety goggles when using your hydrogen torch.

References

• Five Shades of Green Energy: Hydrogen Water Torch

Resources

• Periodic Table: Homemade Hydrogen