Pyromania is definitely nothing new on WonderHowTo. From flamethrowers and hydrogen fireballs, to flame-making pistons and wine corks, to simply burning steel wool fireworks and DIY smoke mix, we've covered it all. But when pyromaniacal mad scientists feel the need to release some tension in the lab, gummy bears and cockroaches become the victims of euphoric oxidation by way of molten potassium chlorate.

A recent video by famous YouTube chemist NurdRage shows one of mankind's most despised creatures subjected to a little test-tube cremation. First, some potassium chlorate is dropped into a test tube, then melted with a blowtorch to make it more reactive. After it's hot enough, the roach is dropped in and consumed by flames until there's nothing but cremains.
I can't help but think that he took it easy on the little bugger, since it was already dead and all, but hey, that's just me.
If you want to try this out yourself, you don't have to hunt down any potassium chlorate online—you can just make your own. NurdRage has a great tutorial on making DIY potassium chlorate at home with laundry bleach and sodium-free salt (i.e. salt substitute).
Now, potassium chlorate isn't just used for annihilating pesky cockroaches. You can oxidize anything that's combustible, like gummy bears...
Sugar...
And yes... even steel wool...
If you're looking for an oxidizing agent a little less powerful than potassium chlorate, look no further than potassium nitrate and have some fun.
Want to master Microsoft Excel and take your work-from-home job prospects to the next level? Jump-start your career with our Premium A-to-Z Microsoft Excel Training Bundle from the new Gadget Hacks Shop and get lifetime access to more than 40 hours of Basic to Advanced instruction on functions, formula, tools, and more.
Other worthwhile deals to check out:
- 97% off The Ultimate 2021 White Hat Hacker Certification Bundle
- 98% off The 2021 Accounting Mastery Bootcamp Bundle
- 99% off The 2021 All-in-One Data Scientist Mega Bundle
- 59% off XSplit VCam: Lifetime Subscription (Windows)
- 98% off The 2021 Premium Learn To Code Certification Bundle
- 62% off MindMaster Mind Mapping Software: Perpetual License
- 41% off NetSpot Home Wi-Fi Analyzer: Lifetime Upgrades
1 Comment
Agh! Too bad the cockroach cremation video was removed!
Share Your Thoughts