Scientists Create New Sparklers That Can Change Hues Mid-Spark

Sparklers are awestriking visual treats at weddings, barbeques, Fourth of July celebrations, and an instant way to ignite some fun in your life. 

However, what was already a glitzy display of light & fire is now getting an upgrade as scientists have discovered a new way to have them change colors. 

Wait a minute, don’t these already exist? 

While color-changing sparklers may not be something out of the blue, these special ones do so mid-spark instead of changing their hue as it burns down. 

The secret is within the materials that are being burned. The team at the American Chemical Society found that by combining a rare material known as ytterbium and copper, a fountain of golden-white arcs of light turned green. The study was first published in the ACS Omega journal back in August. 

With further experimentation, the scientists tested out using crushed neodymium magnets. From there, out spurted a whirring blur of flickers continuously branching out of its “parent” spark. 

Looks like fun is spiffing up real quick.

With that said, the researchers warn that the new recipes still need further testing to ensure that it is safe for use in commercial products. 

In the meantime, here’s a teaser to set your curiosity alight.

[via CNET and American Chemical Society, cover image via American Chemical Society]