George wrote:
"Dave Jackson" wrote in message
hlink.net...
put some strips of aluminum foil in the bottle and add a little HCL ("The
Works" toilet bowl cleaner works real well) tighten the cap, give a shake,
and toss out back. In a few minuites there will be a real big "BANG" when
the bottle explodes from the reaction. be sure to stay clear! --dave


IIUC,
That, and variations on exploding pop bottles that rely on dry ice,
liquid nitrogen or vinegar and baking soda are all considered ex-
plosive devices under Federal Law. Not being concerned with such
issues as common sense, the feds may well prosecute, seeking
prison time.

It is surprising that the BATF has interpreted Federal Law to
exclude 'spud guns' from regulation.


You'll want to review your inorganic chemistry. It's hydroxides you're
after if you want to generate hydrogen. Lye is the preferred for its punch
by weight. Drano and some other drain cleaners even include some aluminum
chips for the foaming and the mechanical action it generates.

And heat, which helps to soften grease.

Aluminum is amphiprotic. When it reacts with HCl, what are the
products? I'd expect to get AlCl2 + H2.

The reaction with lye is _quite_ energetic and does, as you note,
produce hydrogen. Hydrocloric acid and zinc is a gentler way to
produce hydrogen.

--

FF