Researchers funded in the SafeFlame project have developed a portable device that makes fire from water to improve the safety and efficiency of welding and brazing.
The scientists split water into hydrogen and oxygen gases, and fed it into a torch where a welding flame is produced.
The water-based fuel is safer, less harmful and cleaner than highly flammable bottled gases used in brazing and welding, as it only produces water when it burns.
According to the scientists, the new welding flame could be at least 20 times cheaper than the gases currently used, because of the absence of costs such as gas storage, insurance, and transport.
The technology is expected to be commercialised in the near future.
Video by Euronews / 28 October 2013