Introduction: How to Make an Exploding Pumpkin Face (Blast-O-Lantern)
Exploding Pumpkin Faces! You could try making them this Halloween, but probably shouldn't.
Happy Halloween!
Happy Halloween!
Step 1: Watch the Video!
Step 2: Forming the Gas
A very flammable gas (acetylene) is produced inside a pre-carved pumpkin shell by mixing CaC2 and water. When the gas is ignited, the pressure inside builds rapidly, forcing the carved pieces to blast out dramatically.
Step 3: Ignition
I chose to ignite the gas with a pice of visco fuse.
I found it actually ignites most consistently with a hole just small enough to poke the fuse through, and works better at the back of the pumpkin. I only placed it at the top here so it would be visible.
In reality, placing the fuse near the opening at the top leads to pre-mature ignition more often than not, and isn't recommended.
I found it actually ignites most consistently with a hole just small enough to poke the fuse through, and works better at the back of the pumpkin. I only placed it at the top here so it would be visible.
In reality, placing the fuse near the opening at the top leads to pre-mature ignition more often than not, and isn't recommended.