Which powders are used in airbags for lubrication?

Which powders are used in airbags for lubrication?

• A. Talcum Powder or Corn Starch
• B. Baking Soda
• C. Silica Gel
• D. Rice Flour

Answer: (A)

Airbags use a fine inert powder inside the bag to act as a lubricant and flow aid, helping the fabric unfold smoothly and preventing it from sticking to itself as gas rapidly inflates the bag. Talcum powder or corn starch are used because they are soft, non-reactive, and provide good lubrication without introducing reactive or abrasive properties into the deployment. Other powders don’t fit this role: baking soda isn’t used because it’s chemically reactive with moisture and wouldn’t serve as a reliable lubricant; silica gel is a desiccant, not a lubrication agent; rice flour lacks the established, safe flow properties needed for quick, clean deployment.

Airbags use a fine inert powder inside the bag to act as a lubricant and flow aid, helping the fabric unfold smoothly and preventing it from sticking to itself as gas rapidly inflates the bag. Talcum powder or corn starch are used because they are soft, non-reactive, and provide good lubrication without introducing reactive or abrasive properties into the deployment. Other powders don’t fit this role: baking soda isn’t used because it’s chemically reactive with moisture and wouldn’t serve as a reliable lubricant; silica gel is a desiccant, not a lubrication agent; rice flour lacks the established, safe flow properties needed for quick, clean deployment.