What are Gunpowder or Pyrotechnic Fuses?

For decades, gunpowder fuses have been an indispensable part of the world of pyrotechnics.

Although at first glance they may look like a simple cord , the truth is they hide a fascinating history and an essential function. Whether used to light firecrackers, charge a lighter, or power a classic cotton wick, these wicks continue to be present in our celebrations and special moments.

Many people still fondly remember those old-fashioned cotton-wick lighters that worked with a spark and a little fuel.

Today, although technology has advanced, these wicks still have their place, especially in the festive world and in sectors where controlled ignition is desired.

Let's delve into what they are exactly, how they're used, and why brands like Cord-On have remained leaders in their manufacturing for nearly a century.

What are gunpowder fuses?

Gunpowder fuses are cords specially designed to keep a burning ember for several seconds or even minutes.

They are made of fibers like cotton , which are impregnated with an oxidizer that allows them to burn continuously once lit without the need for a constant flame. This characteristic makes them so useful and safe in activities like fireworks.

These types of wicks aren't just used to light firecrackers. They're also common in lighters , where a spark ignites the impregnated wick, generating a controlled, long-lasting flame. Thanks to their wind resistance and slow burn, they've been a staple in both festive and industrial settings for years.

For classic lighters and tinderboxes, cotton wick remains a preferred choice for those who value tradition and functional design.

In addition, modern versions are designed to be safer, with finishes that prevent chipping and a uniform structure that ensures consistent ignition.

How are they used?

Using a powder fuse is quite simple. Place the end of the fuse in contact with a spark, either from a flint lighter or a modern lighter.

Once lit, it maintains a glowing ember thanks to the compounds it contains. In pyrotechnics, this ember is used to start the reaction of the firecracker or firework.

In the domestic setting, for example, in a traditional lighter or tinderbox, the wick remains in its housing, and when the wheel or friction mechanism is activated, the spark ignites the wick, generating a flame that can be fanned with air.

These wicks don't burn out instantly, allowing you to light multiple items without having to repeat the process each time. Additionally, most manufacturers, like Cord-On, offer pre-cut versions , making them easy to use without additional tools.

How long do they last?

The lifespan of a wick depends on its thickness, length, and the material it is made of.

In general, an 8mm thick cotton wick can stay lit for several minutes , long enough to light multiple pyrotechnic items or to keep a live flame in a lighter during normal use.

The main advantage is that they don't go out easily , even in the wind, making them ideal for outdoor use. Furthermore, many are treated with specific compounds to ensure slow, controlled combustion.

A well-maintained wick can last a long time if stored in a dry place and avoided prolonged contact with moisture or grease. This ensures its performance remains stable from the first use to the last inch.

What materials are they made of?

The most common raw material for this type of wick is cotton , due to its ability to sustain a glowing ember without igniting explosively. The cotton is braided into a cord and treated with products that help regulate combustion, such as nitrates or perchlorates in small quantities.

The best wicks on the market use natural cotton and undergo a controlled impregnation and drying process that guarantees optimal performance.

Additionally, they are offered in different finishes: cut, in reels, or in multipacks, depending on the user's needs.

This type of handcrafted, technically controlled manufacturing ensures that each wick retains its integrity during use and produces no hazardous waste, something that many users greatly appreciate.

Liasa: Wick manufacturers since 1934

To talk about Cord-On is to talk about a traditional company that has been accompanying celebrations and important moments for almost 100 years. This brand belongs to LIASA, a Spanish family business founded in 1918 that has been manufacturing fireworks fuses since 1934 under the name "El Caballo" and later "La Cabra."

Cord-On has established itself as a benchmark not only in Spain but throughout Europe, thanks to the quality of its products and the technical expertise accumulated over generations. Its cotton wicks are precision-designed and subject to rigorous quality controls to ensure their effectiveness and safety.

Today, their products are available in specialty stores, online platforms, and traditional celebrations. From Fallas to popular festivals, Cord-On wicks are a safe and reliable option, backed by decades of experience in specialized textile manufacturing.

Where to buy firecracker fuses

If you're looking for a place to buy cotton firecracker wicks, we recommend visiting the official Cord-On Shop. There you'll find various formats of ready-to-use firecracker wicks , manufactured by LIASA to the highest quality standards.

You can choose from a variety of sizes , from individual strands to multi-packs. The purchasing process is quick and easy, and they also ship to your home, so you don't have to leave home to get them.

Furthermore, purchasing directly from the official Cord-On store ensures that you're purchasing an original product, made in Spain and subject to all relevant safety controls. Don't risk buying imitations: a good fuse makes the difference between a safe fireworks experience and an unnecessary scare.

And if you have any questions about which type of wick is best for your needs, their customer service team is available to help you choose the most suitable product.

Final conclusion

Cotton wicks remain a safe, effective, and highly practical solution for lighting firecrackers, lighters, and pyrotechnic devices . Their simple design conceals a technology proven over generations, capable of delivering reliable results even under adverse conditions.

Thanks to brands like Cord-On, with an impeccable track record since 1934, today we can enjoy high-quality products , adapted to current needs and backed by responsible, artisanal manufacturing.

If you're looking for a wick that won't let you down, that works as it should, and that's also easy to use, Cord-On is definitely the right choice. Whether for parties, popular celebrations, or simply for everyday use, their wicks are made to last and light safely .