Exploding Soap Bubbles: A question of gasses.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the use of flammable lighter-than-air gases for creating soap bubbles in a fire-dancing show. Participants consider options such as methane, hydrogen, butane, and propane, emphasizing the need for safety and commercial availability. Methane is identified as a viable option in Norway, while hydrogen is noted for its lighter-than-air properties but poses storage risks. The conversation highlights the importance of safety precautions in pyrotechnics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of flammable gases and their properties
  • Knowledge of pyrotechnics and safety regulations
  • Familiarity with outdoor performance safety measures
  • Basic chemistry concepts related to gas behavior
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the safety protocols for using methane in performances
  • Explore the properties and risks of hydrogen as a flammable gas
  • Investigate commercial availability of butane and propane in Norway
  • Learn about pyrotechnic safety certifications and best practices
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for fire performers, pyrotechnicians, event organizers, and safety professionals involved in outdoor shows and special effects.

noregsson
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So we're considering adding some soap bubbles to a fire-dancing show.

Why? Because soap bubbles are awesome!

But you know what's even _more_ awesome?

That's right! EXPLODING SOAP BUBBLES!

OK, so we don't really want them to explode (well, _I_ do, but apparently democracy rules), but we're thinking flammable lighter than air gasses.

Question:
What would be our best bet? Methane, hydrogen, butane, propane, dynamite? Obviously, we'll want the safest, least volatile, commercially available alternative. And I have a feeling lighter than air is good, not just for the show, but considering the audience below us as well. Oh, and this is for outdoor shows only, in case you were wondering.

I figure there's bound to be someone here who knows more about this stuff than me - I don't think we discussed this much at uni (if we did I probably slept through that lecture) and the only experience I have with this stuff is old physics and chemistry teachers trying their hands at showmanship in high school - exploding balloons and all that jazz. Not much to go on.

I'm open for some discussion here, and feel free to post any and all warnings you can think of. Being a certified pyrotechnician doesn't mean I'm safety-smart. (If I was I'd still have eyebrows . . .)
 
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Hrmm. Have to looked to see which of those are lighter than air? I would guess that butane, methane, or something similar would be best, as they are readily available and not as dangerous as storing Hydrogen, but I don't know which ones are lighter than air off the top of my head.
 
Well yeah, methane and hydrogen are lighter than air. Dynamite is not. =(

I wasn't sure if methane was available to the public here in Norway, but it looks as if it is. Which is great, as that was what we were hoping to use.

Anyone have any other ideas for what can or can't be used? We'd love to get more ideas for things to try out.
 

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