Better haunting through chemistry

Compiled by Times staff writer

© St. Petersburg Times, published October 30, 2000

Calendar of Halloween events around Tampa Bay

From a press release issued by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers in New York. The organization, which represents 57,000 chemical engineers worldwide, "applies the expertise of its members to . . . improve the quality of life for people throughout the world."

-- Mike Wilson, Floridian editor

Halloween and chemical engineers!

The Perfect Team for a Safe & Spooky Halloween 2000

New York -- As the nation's children get ready to "trick or treat" their way to a spook-tacular Halloween 2000, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) would like parents to know that this festive holiday wouldn't be quite the same without the help of chemical engineers. . . .

Here are just a few . . . Halloween innovations developed by chemical engineers:

Light reflecting Halloween costumes -- "Better to see you with, my dear!"

Flame retardant costumes

Glow-in-the-dark light sticks -- To make trick or treaters more visible to motorists

Tamper-proof plastic packaging for candies and other treats

Bright orange plastic jack-o'-lanterns Long life batteries for safety flashlights -- Let there be light!

Hypo-allergenic makeup -- Great for spooky face painting

Nylon brooms -- improved transportation for 21st century witches and goblins

Wrinkle-free sheets for "friendly ghosts'

"Unfortunately," adds (AIChE president Bruce) Finlayson, "chemical engineers have yet to develop a way to improve the chemistry between "tricksters' and "treaters.' But we're working on that!"

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