The basic idea is that the copper tube holds a high-temperature carbon wick that stays saturated ... the candle—or anything burning—doesn’t tip over or set something else on fire.

With aluminium likely to make a big return as a result, it’s worth taking a look at modern-day aluminium-based wiring, including copper-clad aluminium and the use of carbon-based replacements.

Researchers at Cambridge University have developed electrical wiring from carbon, which could potentially replace copper while improving conductivity. The researchers claim that the carbon ...