{"id":4651,"date":"2023-03-28T16:24:55","date_gmt":"2023-03-28T16:24:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/?p=4651"},"modified":"2023-03-28T16:29:37","modified_gmt":"2023-03-28T16:29:37","slug":"mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work\/","title":{"rendered":"MRE Heaters: A explanation of How They Work"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>MREs, or Meals Ready-to-Eat, are self-contained individual field rations in lightweight packaging used by the military, outdoor enthusiasts, and emergency responders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One key feature of MREs is their self-healing mechanism which enables users to heat food even when there's no access to a stove or fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These mechanisms function through a chemical reaction that generates heat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide will investigate the science behind MRE heaters, how they work, and what safety precautions should be taken when using them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/MRE-Heaters.webp 1200w,https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/MRE-Heaters-768x403.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img src=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/MRE-Heaters.jpg\" height=\"630\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/MRE-Heaters.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/MRE-Heaters-768x403.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"wp-image-4666 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_64 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work\/#Understanding_the_Science_Behind_MRE_Heaters\" title=\"Understanding the Science Behind MRE Heaters\">Understanding the Science Behind MRE Heaters<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work\/#Chemical_Reactions_That_Create_Heat_in_MRE_Heaters\" title=\"Chemical Reactions That Create Heat in MRE Heaters\">Chemical Reactions That Create Heat in MRE Heaters<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work\/#Waters_Role_in_MRE_Heater_Activation\" title=\"Water&#039;s Role in MRE Heater Activation\">Water's Role in MRE Heater Activation<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work\/#Safety_Warnings_When_Utilizing_MRE_Heaters\" title=\"Safety Warnings When Utilizing MRE Heaters\">Safety Warnings When Utilizing MRE Heaters<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work\/#FAQs_about_MRE_heaters\" title=\"FAQs about MRE heaters\">FAQs about MRE heaters<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work\/#Alternative_Ways_to_Heat_MREs\" title=\"Alternative Ways to Heat MREs\">Alternative Ways to Heat MREs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-6' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-6'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-6' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-6'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/mre-heaters-a-explanation-on-how-they-work\/#Conclusion_and_final_thoughts\" title=\"Conclusion and final thoughts\">Conclusion and final thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_the_Science_Behind_MRE_Heaters\"><\/span>Understanding the Science Behind MRE Heaters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>MRE heaters work through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/topics\/engineering\/exothermic-oxidation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">exothermic oxidation<\/a>, a chemical reaction that generates heat when fuel and oxygen combine. Magnesium serves as the fuel while <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Iron_oxide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">iron oxide<\/a> is the oxidizer; when magnesium comes into contact with iron oxide, it reacts with the oxygen to form magnesium oxide and releases heat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Magnesium and iron oxide chemical reactions are highly exothermic, generating much heat. This heat can reach temperatures as high as 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit), with some MRE heaters lasting for up to 15 minutes, depending on what kind is used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chemical_Reactions_That_Create_Heat_in_MRE_Heaters\"><\/span>Chemical Reactions That Create Heat in MRE Heaters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>MRE heaters utilize a two-step chemical reaction to generate heat. It is essential to know that they only produce a one-time chemical reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once started, there can be no stopping or restarting; thus, they should only be utilized when you're ready to eat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Waters_Role_in_MRE_Heater_Activation\"><\/span>Water's Role in MRE Heater Activation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>As previously stated, water plays an integral role in activating MRE heaters. This is because water must be added to the heater pouch to begin a chemical reaction that otherwise won't occur, leaving it without heat production. Without water, however, this chemical reaction cannot happen, and you'll have no heat production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is essential to note that not <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mreinfo.com\/forums\/viewtopic.php?t=10441\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">all water is suitable<\/a> for MRE heaters. For example, hard water with high mineral content or water treated with chlorine or other chemicals may not perform optimally when activating MRE heaters; these impurities can disrupt the chemical reaction and prevent proper functioning. Therefore, using clean, purified water is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safety_Warnings_When_Utilizing_MRE_Heaters\"><\/span>Safety Warnings When Utilizing MRE Heaters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While MRE heaters tend to be safe, there are some essential safety tips to remember.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First and foremost, always use them in a well-ventilated area as the chemical reaction that generates heat produces hydrogen gas which could be hazardous if inhaled in large amounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, never open the pouch even after use - it may still contain magnesium which could react with moisture in the air and start a fire if left unattended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is essential to follow the <strong>instructions provided<\/strong> carefully. Overheating or adding too much water can cause the pouch to rupture, which could be hazardous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, never use MRE heaters for anything other than their intended purpose - never start a fire or light a cigarette, as these activities pose severe risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_about_MRE_heaters\"><\/span>FAQs about MRE heaters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:<\/strong> Can I reuse MRE heaters?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A: <\/strong>No, they are intended for one-time use only. Once a chemical reaction has begun, it cannot be stopped or restarted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:<\/strong> How long does it take for an MRE heater to warm food?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A:<\/strong> They can generate heat for up to 15 minutes, depending on the type of device. The exact duration depends on both the food type and ambient temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q:<\/strong> Can I consume food directly from an MRE heater pouch?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A:<\/strong> Food in an MRE pouch can be eaten directly from the pouch. However, caution is essential when handling the pouch since it may be hot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to Use An MRE Heater\" width=\"1290\" height=\"726\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/18NrF23-WfA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alternative_Ways_to_Heat_MREs\"><\/span>Alternative Ways to Heat MREs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>They provide a convenient way to heat food while in the field, but if they're not available, other methods can be used instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One option is using a portable stove or camping stove as a heat source - this requires more equipment but offers reliable results in the field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another method is using fire to heat the food. This requires warming the fire and placing the MRE pouch near it. Unfortunately, this approach requires special skills and materials to start the fire safely and successfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion_and_final_thoughts\"><\/span>Conclusion and final thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>MRE heaters are an integral part of MREs, providing users access to hot food even when access to a stove or fire isn't possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Users must understand the science behind it to ensure safe and effective usage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Users can safely and conveniently heat their food while in the field by following the safety precautions and instructions.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MREs, or Meals Ready-to-Eat, are self-contained individual field rations in lightweight packaging used by the military, outdoor enthusiasts, and emergency responders. One key feature of MREs is their self-healing mechanism which enables users to heat food even when there's no access to a stove or fire. These mechanisms function through a chemical reaction that generates [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4666,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"blocksy_meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4651"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4651"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4651\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4667,"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4651\/revisions\/4667"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4666"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4651"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4651"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/survivalinnature.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4651"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}