Sun, HP "scrap" (???)

[Gordon JC Pearce]

On Thu, 2007-05-31 at 12:53 -0600, woodelf wrote:
> Chris M wrote:
> > OI let's not forget Thermite! You combine rust and
> > powdered aluminum, ignite it (with a *storm match*,
> > whatever that is), and it produces 6000 degrees F.
> > Useful for welding train rails together, and rudders
> > on battle ships. 
> A similar compound they believe was in the paint of the
> Hindenburg.

I saw a TV programme about this a couple of years ago - seems that
someone investigating the Hindenburg explosion had turned up a book of
fabric samples painted with various dopes and exposed to large electric
sparks.

Most had small holes from about the size of a pin prick up to ones
resembling a fag burn in a car seat.  Then they turned to the page with
the fabric and dope used on the Hindenburg - it was almost completely
burnt away!  I don't speak (or read) much German but I can recognise
text that says "DO NOT USE THIS STUFF WHATEVER ELSE YOU DO!", but it
seems that they *did* use it...

Gordon