In 1855, the first person to incorporate amorphous phosphorus in the manufacture and use of safety matches was Swedish chemist Gustaf Erik Pasche. Amorphous phosphorus is a form of phosphorus that is less reactive and safer to handle than its white phosphorus counterpart. Pasche's innovation revolutionized the safety match industry, making matches safer and easier to use for consumers.

Before Pasche's discovery, matches were made using white phosphorus, which was highly toxic and posed a significant health risk to matchmakers and users alike. The use of white phosphorus in matches led to the development of a condition known as "phossy jaw," a painful and disfiguring disease that affected workers in match factories.

Pasche's incorporation of amorphous phosphorus in safety matches not only eliminated the health risks associated with white phosphorus but also improved the overall safety and reliability of matches. The use of amorphous phosphorus made matches easier to ignite and less prone to accidental combustion, making them a more convenient and practical option for consumers.

Today, safety matches continue to be manufactured using amorphous phosphorus, ensuring that they remain a safe and reliable option for lighting fires and candles. The use of amorphous phosphorus in safety matches has become standard practice in the industry, thanks to Pasche's groundbreaking innovation.

For more information on the history of safety matches and the role of amorphous phosphorus in their manufacture, visit https://www.britannica.com/technology/safety-match.

In conclusion, Gustaf Erik Pasche was the first to incorporate amorphous phosphorus in safety matches by 1855, revolutionizing the industry and making matches safer and more reliable for consumers. His innovation has had a lasting impact on the safety match industry, ensuring that matches remain a convenient and practical way to light fires and candles.

Sign Up