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What is inside HotHands?

Published in Chemistry of Heat Packs 2 mins read

HotHands warmers contain a specific mix of materials that, when exposed to air, produce heat.

Composition of HotHands

The key components inside a HotHands warmer are:

  • Iron Powder: This is the primary ingredient that reacts with oxygen in the air to generate heat through a process called oxidation.
  • Salt: Acts as a catalyst, speeding up the oxidation process of the iron.
  • Activated Charcoal: Helps to disperse the heat more evenly and also plays a role in absorbing moisture.

How HotHands Work

  1. The HotHands packet contains a sealed, air-tight mesh bag.
  2. When the outer package is opened and the mesh bag is removed, the ingredients inside are exposed to oxygen.
  3. The iron powder, salt, and activated charcoal begin to react with the oxygen in a controlled oxidation reaction.
  4. This reaction generates heat, which is what makes the HotHands warmer feel warm.

The following table summarizes the components of a HotHands warmer:

Component Function
Iron Powder Main substance reacting with oxygen to produce heat
Salt Catalyst to speed up the oxidation reaction
Activated Charcoal Evenly distributes heat and absorbs moisture

This reaction is what enables HotHands to provide a portable and convenient heat source.

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