Davy Tests his Lamp
Poster Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
Davy Tests his Lamp
Humphry Davy tests his safety lamp, designed to operate in gassy mines without fear of sparking an explosion
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4341917
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10100407
1815 Coal Davy Explosion Fear Humphry Lamp Mines Mining Operate Operations Safety Sparking Tests Designed
EDITORS COMMENTS
This image captures the historic moment when Sir Humphry Davy, a renowned English chemist and inventor, tests his groundbreaking safety lamp in 1815. The lamp, designed to operate in gassy mines without the fear of sparking an explosion, revolutionized the coal mining industry and significantly improved mine safety. Davy, a pioneer in the field of electrochemistry, had been experimenting with various designs to address the issue of mine safety. The traditional mining lamps of the time, which used a wick soaked in oil or tallow, posed a significant risk of igniting the explosive gases present in coal mines. Davy's innovative solution was a lamp that used a hollow candle filled with a mixture of potassium chlorate and charcoal, surrounded by a glass bulb. The heat generated by the burning charcoal caused the potassium chlorate to decompose, releasing oxygen that kept the flame alight, while the glass bulb prevented the escape of sparks or flames. In this photograph, Davy is seen holding the lamp in a mine, surrounded by miners and onlookers. The expression on his face shows a mixture of concentration and excitement as he observes the lamp's performance. The miners, who had long endured the dangerous conditions of their work, watched with hope and anticipation, knowing that this invention could potentially save countless lives. This photograph is a testament to Davy's ingenuity and his commitment to improving the safety and working conditions of the coal mining industry. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of innovation and the role it plays in shaping our world and protecting the lives of those who work in hazardous environments.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
