Squib (explosive)

A squib otherwise refered to as an electric match is a small explosive device which is used in pyrotechnics and display fireworks. A squib can range in size from a small cap only millimeters in diameter to larger, more spectacular ones which can be 1/2 inch or larger. In display fireworks, it is used to ignite the fuse of a commercial firework shell. The squib is generally connected to a "firing-rail" or "breakout box" which connects to a central firing board. Squibs are designed to be fired using a small current which can be supplied from sources such as a 9V battery or a Car Battery in larger setups. Squibs are also very sensitive to EM radiation and devices such as vehicles, radios, celluar phones, and even cellular and microwave transmitters can set off a squib unless the two leads are terminated correctly.

Related Topics:
Explosive - Pyrotechnics - Fireworks

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In pyrotechnics, squibs are used to produce a spark which would simulate gunshots, sparking/arcing electrical equipment and much more.

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In aviation squibs are used to generate pressurised gas to open valves and operate small mechanical devices on such as ejection seats and to pierce metal diaphrams that are retaining pressurised liquids such as halon and fluorocarbon extinguishants or release compressed nitrogen gas to act as a propellant.

Related Topics:
Aviation - Valve - Mechanical - Ejection seat - Halon - Fluorocarbon - Extinguishants

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They are also widely used in the special effects industry to simulate a bullet hit by coupling the squib itself with a packet of either fake blood for hits on persons or dust/debris for hits on other objects.

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Squibs were originally made from parchment tubes, or the shaft of a feather filled with fine black powder and sealed at the ends with wax. These were inserted into the touch holes of cannon and used to ignite the main propellant charge. Roger Bacon first described the making of squibs in 1248.

Related Topics:
Black powder - Touch hole - Roger Bacon

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A "damp squib" is literally one that fails to go off due to wetting but the term has come into general use to mean anything that fails to meet expectations.

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