Matches provide a convenient way to create fire. A common question is whether matches are made of phosphorus. The answer is nuanced, as phosphorus, in different forms, plays a specific role in modern matches, but not in the way many might assume. This chemical element is central to how matches ignite and has a significant history in their development.
Phosphorus in Matches
Modern safety matches utilize red phosphorus, a much safer form than the dangerous white phosphorus used in earlier versions. Red phosphorus is found on the striking surface of the matchbox, not in the match head itself. This striking surface typically contains red phosphorus mixed with an abrasive material like powdered glass and a binder. When a safety match is struck against this surface, friction generates heat for ignition.
White phosphorus is highly volatile, igniting spontaneously in air at around 30°C, and its use in early matches led to significant health hazards. Red phosphorus is a more stable form, igniting at a much higher temperature (around 240°C) and is non-toxic. This distinction is fundamental to the safety and design of contemporary matches.
How Matches Ignite
The ignition of a safety match is a rapid chemical reaction initiated by friction. When the match head is drawn across the striking surface, friction creates heat. This heat converts a tiny amount of the red phosphorus on the striking surface into white phosphorus vapor.
The newly formed white phosphorus is highly reactive and ignites in the presence of air. This initial small flame then reacts with chemicals in the match head. The match head contains an oxidizing agent, typically potassium chlorate, which provides oxygen for combustion. This reaction generates enough heat to ignite other combustible materials, such as sulfur or antimony trisulfide, leading to the sustained flame.
The Evolution of Match Safety
Early match production involved highly reactive and toxic white phosphorus. Matches made with it could ignite easily on any surface, earning them the name “strike-anywhere” matches. However, its use in factories led to severe occupational diseases, most notably “phossy jaw” (phosphorus necrosis of the jaw). Workers suffered painful abscesses, facial disfigurement, and bone decay from inhaling phosphorus vapors.
Concerns over “phossy jaw” and the dangers of white phosphorus matches spurred safer alternatives. The discovery of red phosphorus in 1845 by Anton Schrötter von Kristelli provided a non-toxic and more stable alternative. This led to the invention of the safety match, moving reactive phosphorus from the match head to a dedicated striking surface. This revolutionized match safety and led to the widespread ban of white phosphorus in match manufacturing by the early 20th century.
Beyond Phosphorus What Matches Are Made Of
While phosphorus is essential for ignition, matches consist of several other components that facilitate the burning process. The match head is a complex mixture, typically containing an oxidizing agent like potassium chlorate, which supplies oxygen to fuel the flame. Fuels like sulfur or antimony trisulfide are also present, providing the primary combustible material once ignited.
Binders, often animal glue or starches, hold these ingredients together in the match head and secure it to the matchstick. Fillers and inert materials, like glass powder, help regulate the reaction speed and provide bulk. The matchstick, usually made from wood or stiff paper, is often treated with ammonium phosphate to prevent afterglow and soaked in paraffin wax for efficient flame travel. This combination of materials ensures a controlled and effective burn once the initial ignition occurs.