They are colorful, handy and self-explanatory and frolic as a general-purpose utility item in many bags, backpacks and drawers. Today, the little helpers are mass-produced and are often traded in large quantities at penny prices. But they also go as a giveaway over the counters, come printed and personalized, ignite trends and are considered collectors‘ items in artisanal circles.
The name lighter is derived from the colloquial idiom „stuff with which one makes fire“. The original form of today’s lighter is due to the chemist Döbereiner. Modern pocket lighters have been manufactured since the 20th century. Even the native company Rowenta has established itself with the production of lighters and pens, before moving their production to other household helpers. The lavishly manufactured lighters of that time, however, only rescued themselves as collectors‘ objects into the modern age. For the most part they were displaced by today’s disposable lighters.

Manufacturers and brands
Manufacturers such as BIC, whose lighters can be recognized by the typical oval shape, are still present on the market today. Also the clipper lighter was the first refillable plastic lighter in the 70s and is still a leader in this segment. Around the Clipper there are trends and collectors‘ communities that the lighter have become a cult object. In the more noble models, the manufacturer S.T. Dupont a size. Just like the Zippo, which is the best selling Lightermay designate the world and advertise with a lifetime of durability. The most expensive lighter The world costs about 65,000 EUR and is decorated with a variety of real diamonds.

Gas, gasoline and electronics
Lighters are differentiated depending on the fuel, burner and design.
In a gas powered lighter with sparkle ignition, the friction spark ignites a mixture of butane and air, while piezo lighters use electricity to ignite the gas mixture. Gasoline lighters burn over a cotton wick, which transports the fuel up the tank. So-called jetflame lighters, better known as storm lighters, are particularly good at wind action, because their flame better withstands the draft. At below freezing temperatures, gas lighters no longer function reliably because the vapor pressure of the gas decreases. Since gas expands again when heated, you can often ignite a really „empty“ lighter again, if you rub it briefly and vigorously between your hands. Try this trick at your own risk and never with fully loaded lighters!

Safety and regulations
A real danger comes from lighters, which are exposed to direct sun or heat, they can literally explode. The security authorities at German airports have set special rules for carrying lighters. Jetflame and Zippo lighters are considered potentially dangerous and are excluded from being carried. Luggage carrying lighters is strictly prohibited. They may only be performed on the person.
At the US authorities, lighters in hand luggage are still not allowed, with the exception of never-filled, brand-new Zippo lighters.