Thread: Weird News
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Old 11-02-2016, 05:32 PM   #3632
sexobon
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Join Date: Oct 2009
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In that context they may be drawing on the distinction between definitions for flammable and combustible materials which is regulated by both national and international safety organizations. Items that are categorized flammable (e.g. ether) catch fire more easily than items that are categorized combustible (e.g. surgical drapes which cover the patient around the operating area).

Oxygen is not flammable. It's required as an oxidizer for something that will burn (that which constitutes a fuel); but, oxygen alone does not. Exposing something already burning to more oxygen will increase the combustion rate and therein lies the danger with oxygen tanks. It can cause a lit cigarette to flame up and when dropped set clothes on fire.
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