GI tag sought for Sivakasi-Kovilpatti matchboxes
According to IPR Attorney P. Sanjai Gandhi, the GI tag is being sought for matchboxes produced in Sivakasi and Kovilpatti. Sivakasi/Kovilpatti matchboxes are referred to as Sivakasi Matchboxes.
According to the filing, the term Sivakasi Matchbox has been used for more than 100 years and the processing, preparation, and manufacturing happens in Sivakasi taluk, which also spreads to Sattur and Virudhunagar taluks (Virudhunagar district), Kovilpatti and Ettayapuram taluks (Thoothukudi district), and Sankarankovil taluk (Tenkasi district).
Sivakasi matchstick splints are precisely cut from locally-sourced softwoods, including Indian Malabarica Poplar and Aspen. These woods are chosen for their ideal density, smooth texture, and consistent combustibility, ensuring a clean and steady burn. The match heads are formulated with a scientifically calibrated blend of potassium chlorate (as an oxidizer), antimony trisulfide (for friction sensitivity), sulfur (for flame stability), and high-quality binders like casein gum powder or gum arabic, which ensure controlled ignition and minimal sparking. The friction strips are coated with a uniform layer of red phosphorus and powdered glass, creating a reliable striking surface that prevents accidental ignition while guaranteeing a near-instantaneous flame when struck correctly.
Details in the filing mentioned that the structural integrity of Sivakasi matchboxes is reinforced by the use of high-GSM (240–320 GSM) kraft paper or cardboard for both the outer and inner boxes, providing durability and resistance to deformation. These boxes are often treated with wax or paraffin coatings to enhance moisture resistance, preventing dampness from affecting the matches' performance even in humid conditions. Additionally, the boxes are designed with precise tolerances to ensure a snug fit for the matches, reducing splint breakage and maintaining consistency in packaging.
Each batch undergoes multiple tests, such as strike rate analysis (achieving over 95% success), burn time measurement, and chemical stability checks to ensure uniform performance. The splints are uniformly cut to 38–46 mm in length with minimal deviations, while the moisture content is kept below 5% to prevent degradation and maintain ignition reliability over extended storage periods.
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