Fire and explosions: from coal gas to the cosmos

Claire Benson covers a collection of stories on fire & explosion science in the Victorian era; including the dangerous nature of the first plastics, how the creation of explosives actually saved lives, and how the invention of the Bunsen burner led to us understanding the make-up and expansion of the universe. Claire shows how fire is often a common thread through development and disaster in society.

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Speakers

Dr Claire M. Benson is a fire and explosion scientist with over 10 years’ experience researching and lecturing on explosions and fire safety at London South Bank University. She has a PhD in chemical engineering, specialising in high-pressure oxygen system safety. Her research areas include fire suppression, fire and arson investigation and risk management.

Location

The Royal Institution 21 Albemarle Street London W1S 4BS

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