Unraveling The Magic Of Catalytic Fragrance Lamp Wicks

Catalytic fragrance lamps, also known as perfume lamps, effusion lamps or catalytic lamps, are used to disperse scented alcohol and purify the air. The catalytic combustion wick was developed and patented by Maurice Berger, a French pharmaceutical dispenser, in 1898 as a means of purifying the air in hospitals and mortuaries. But how does it work?

The catalytic process

The catalytic fragrance lamp wick works through a process known as catalytic combustion. This involves a catalytic reaction between the platinum catalyst on the stone part of the wick assembly, the fragrance liquid, and oxygen. The fragrance liquid is drawn up the cotton wick through capillary action and into the porous ceramic burner head, where the catalysis takes place.

The catalytic reaction is self-sustaining as long as there is a constant supply of fuel and oxygen. The heat generated by the reaction breaks down and neutralises malodorous molecules, eliminating odours rather than simply covering them up. This process also oxidises some of the liquid, releasing the fragrance into the air.

The catalytic lamp was invented by Maurice Berger, a French pharmaceutical dispenser, in 1898. Berger's original intention was to purify the air in hospitals and mortuaries, and it is claimed that the catalytic oxidation process destroys airborne bacteria and increases oxygen levels.

To operate a catalytic fragrance lamp, the user must first pour an alcohol-based fragrance solution into the lamp, which is then absorbed by the wick and drawn into the catalytic stone. The stone burner is then ignited, and the heat generated begins the catalytic process. After approximately two minutes, once the stone has reached the correct operating temperature, the flame should be extinguished, and the fragrance will continue to be diffused through the catalytic process.

How to light the lamp

To light a catalytic fragrance lamp, you must first pour an alcohol-based fragrance into the lamp, which will be absorbed by the wick into the catalytic stone. Then, ignite the stone burner at the mouth of the lamp. Allow the stone to burn for around two minutes until it reaches the correct operating temperature. At this point, the flame should be extinguished, and the oil will be diffused through the catalytic process.

The catalytic lamp works when the catalyst (platinum) present on the stone part of the wick assembly is heated, creating a catalytic reaction with the fragrance and oxygen. This reaction is self-sustaining while there is a constant fuel and oxygen supply. The liquid in the fragrance is drawn up the cotton wick into the porous ceramic burner head, where the catalysis takes place, oxidising some of the liquid and releasing the rest into the air, along with the fragrance.

The catalytic oxidation process is claimed to destroy bacteria in the air and increase oxygen levels. It is also said to completely rid a home of offensive odours, such as cooking, cigarette smoke, and pet odours, by eliminating the odour rather than simply covering it up, as candles do.

To ensure optimal lamp use and care, it is recommended that you replace the wick once a year or every 200 uses.

How to use the lamp safely

To use a catalytic fragrance lamp safely, follow these steps:

• Ensure the lamp is on a flat, even surface, away from any flammable materials or open flames.
• Pour the alcohol-based fragrance into the lamp, allowing the wick to absorb the liquid fully.
• Light the catalytic burner with a flame and let it burn for approximately two minutes.
• Extinguish the flame once the catalytic stone reaches the correct operating temperature. The lamp will continue to diffuse the fragrance through the catalytic process.
• Always use a new, tight-fitting fuel container that is not leaking.
• When not in use, keep the airtight cap on at all times to prevent evaporation and the risk of an alcohol vapour/air mixture, which is highly flammable.
• Replace the wick once a year or every 200 uses for optimal performance and safety.
• Do not leave the lamp unattended, and keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Allow the lamp to cool completely before handling or refilling.
• Store the lamp and fragrance liquids in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

The history of the catalytic lamp

The catalytic lamp was developed and patented by Maurice Berger, a French pharmaceutical dispenser, in 1898. Berger created the lamp as a means of purifying the air in hospitals and mortuaries. The catalytic lamp works by drawing up a neutral refill or lamp fragrance through a cotton wick threaded through a natural, porous stone. The stone is then heated, creating a catalytic reaction with the fragrance and oxygen, which is self-sustaining while there is a constant fuel and oxygen supply. This process is known as catalytic combustion and is claimed to destroy bacteria in the air and increase oxygen levels.

The catalytic lamp is also known as a perfume lamp, effusion lamp, or fragrance lamp. It can be used to disperse scented alcohol and to completely rid a home of offensive odours, such as cooking, cigarette smoke, and pet odours. The lamp is safer than candles, with no open flame after the first few minutes and is soot-free.

How to replace the wick

To replace the wick of a catalytic fragrance lamp, follow these steps:

• Purchase a replacement wick that is compatible with your specific lamp model. Ensure it has the correct dimensions and features, such as a quality wick centre hole and a ceramic carrier.
• Before beginning the replacement process, gather the necessary lamp accessories, including a new wick, a heat-radiating plate, and, if needed, a new ceramic burner.
• Remove the old wick from the lamp by gently pulling it out. Take care not to damage the surrounding components, especially the catalytic stone.
• Clean the lamp thoroughly, paying close attention to the area where the wick was placed. Ensure that there is no residue or build-up that could interfere with the proper functioning of the new wick.
• Insert the new wick into the lamp, ensuring that it is securely in place and properly aligned with the catalytic stone.
• Prepare the lamp for use by pouring an alcohol-based fragrance or essential oil into the lamp. Allow the wick to thoroughly absorb the fuel.
• Light the catalytic burner with a flame and let it burn for approximately two minutes. This initial lighting is crucial for the catalytic process to begin.
• After two minutes, extinguish the flame. The oil will now be diffused through the catalytic process, releasing fragrance into the air while purifying it.
• Remember to replace your wick once a year or every 200 uses, as recommended by lamp manufacturers, to ensure optimal performance and fragrance diffusion.

Frequently asked questions