How to Make a Wickless Alcohol Lamp

Wickless alcohol lamps use an alcohol-based gel to create small, clean-burning, self-contained fires. These portable heat sources can be used to add ambient light to a setting, sterilize instruments, cook food, or boil water, without generating fumes or smoke. While alcohol gel can be purchased in retail outlets, it is possible to create the fuel at home by adding rubbing alcohol to white vinegar and chalk.

2 8-ounce jars with lids
8 to 10 sticks of white, calcium-based chalk
1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
1/4 teaspoon. salt
2/3 cup rubbing alcohol

Instructions

- 1
  Wash two 8-ounce jars and their lids in hot, soapy water, then invert them on the counter and leave them to dry.
- 2
  Place 8 to 10 sticks of white, calcium-based chalk in a plastic storage bag; set the bag on a flat surface, and then use a rolling pin to crush the chalk.
- 3
  Scoop 2 tablespoons. of powdered chalk into an ovenproof glass bowl or heavy-duty jar. Add 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir the mixture for approximately five minutes.
- 4
  Strain the solution to filter out any remaining chalk pieces, and then return the mixture to the container. Set the container in the oven. Bake at 200 degrees for 30 minutes, or until half of the solution has evaporated.
- 5
  Divide the remaining mixture evenly between the two jars. Add 1/3 cup rubbing alcohol to each jar. Stir briefly, then stand back and observe. As the alcohol reacts with the calcium from the chalk and the acetic acid from the vinegar, the mixture will take on a distinct, gel-like consistency.
- 6
  Pour off any remaining liquid. Seal the jars and use as needed.

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