can i use a shredded aluminum can for thermite reaction?

Question

i have rust powder and i need alumium, if i shredded a coke can, could i do the reaction

Answer 1

For thermite you want the Aluminium to be as "powdered" as possible. I don't know how you are shredding it, but unless its powdered i don't think it will be that useful. The thermite reaction specifically needs both substances to be powdered.

Coke cans may not be the best for thermite. I suggest maybe buying a thick sheet of aluminium from a hardware store or something and using a file on it and collecting the powder from that. Use a strong file.

You may also be lucky enough to find aluminium powder sold in a paint store, but i don't know if its that easy to find.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

You have to heat the mixture to start it.