Paperbark as a Fire Starter

Paperbark, in this case a paperbark maple fragment has been used as a fire starter/tinder due to flammable oils in the bark. We tried the theory with a magnifying glass.  The charring seen in the photo occurred in less than ten seconds, but with a few trials only one burst into flame.  This was a trial near the edge,possibly more surface area.  It was a cold windy day adding to the difficulty.  Behind the bark is dryer lint, attempting to get a real flame going. Anyone interested in this should practice in a non-urgent situation (adult supervision).

Smaller burning lenses concentrate the light more, stronger focus, but also take in less total light.  The cold winter days are interesting.  The sun is lower,the light going through more atmosphere, but the air is dryer so the heat at the focal point was good.  There were days of cloudy skies previously so the bark specimen may have lost any volatile oils.

We have seen artists using burning lens to make designs, similar to the wood burning electric pencils.  When done I will sign and date this "object".

In summary, would not want to depend on this if in the Jack London "To Start a Fire " situation but an interesting thought.  Hazards here are obvious, particularly the heat at the focal point of this relatively small lens.  Be sure any embers are cold.
We once saw a Fresnel lens over a foot in diameter set a standard 2x4 on fire in seconds.

Flame was at right edge,otherwise only charring