This type of acetylene-based process is illustrative of what is known as "Reppe chemistry", after German chemist Walter Reppe.
Most often the condition is caused by prolonged exposure to Klieg lights, therapeutic lamps, or acetylene torches.
The ship had about 500 bags of cement destined for the Cape Sable Light aboard, and also drums of calcium carbide, that caused much concern (as it reacts with water to form the flammable gas acetylene).
Calcium phosphide is often used in naval flares, as in contact with water it liberates phosphine which self-ignites in contact with air; it is often used together with calcium carbide which releases acetylene.
He also worked as an Instructor in Oxy-Acetylene Welding at Cardiff Technical College and was also a keen Photographer.
Thermobaric and fuel-air explosives have been used in guerrilla warfare since the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing in Lebanon, which used a gas-enhanced explosive mechanism, probably propane, butane or acetylene.