It is used in pyrotechnics to produce certain firework mixtures or to ignite thermite reactions. Magnesium ribbon is one of the most common ways to ignite chemical reactions that require a higher temperature to ignite.
Magnesium ribbon is an element and a metal. It is silver coloured, very light and really quite reactive. ... Hazards: Magnesium metal and alloys are highly flammable in their pure form when molten, as a powder, or in ribbon form. Burning or molten magnesium metal reacts violently with water.