firedamp

American  

[fahyuhr-damp] / ˈfaɪərˌdæmp /

noun

Mining.

1. a combustible gas consisting chiefly of methane, formed especially in coal mines, and dangerously explosive when mixed with certain proportions of atmospheric air.

2. the explosive mixture itself.

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firedamp British  

/ ˈfaɪəˌdæmp /

noun

1. a mixture of hydrocarbons, chiefly methane, formed in coal mines. It forms explosive mixtures with air See also afterdamp

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Etymology

Origin of firedamp

First recorded in 1670–80; fire + damp

Example Sentences

The blast was believed to have been caused by firedamp, a term referring to methane in coal mines.

From Reuters

Authorities said Turkish prosecutors have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion, with preliminary findings suggesting it was caused by firedamp, a term referring to methane forming an explosive mixture in coal mines.

From BBC

Energy Minister Fatih Durmaz said preliminary assessments indicated the tragedy was caused by a firedamp explosion — when methane mixes with air and fire — creating a dangerous underground situation.

From Seattle Times

Authorities said initial indications were that the blast was caused by firedamp, a term referring to methane in coal mines.

From Reuters

An early assessment indicated that the explosion was likely caused by firedamp, which is a reference to flammable gases found in coal mines, according to Energy Minister Fatih Durmaz.

From Seattle Times