[Jewelry making - Article 00354] - Re: [Orchid] Removing epoxy

[James Binnion]

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    Acetone will not dissolve epoxy. It may, depending on several things
    soften its grip enough to allow the item to be removed but this will
    depend on how the epoxy was applied what materials are bonded  and
    the type of epoxy. If the epoxy was applied to properly prepared
    surfaces it is unlikely acetone will do the trick. 

    I don't know where the MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone) came into this but
    Attack is not acetone or MEK. Attack is dichloromethethane
    (methylene chloride) and dimethylformamide both of which are very
    nasty solvents. 

    dichloromethethane is listed as  "Harmful if swallowed or inhaled.
    May be harmful by skin contact. Eye and skin irritant. Readily
    absorbed through the skin. Asphyxiant. Causes CNS depression.
    Possibly carcinogenic in humans. Possible mutagen. Experimental
    reproductive effects." 

    dimethylformamide is listed as " Harmful by inhalation, ingestion or
    skin contact.  May act as a carcinogen. Ingestion or absorption
    through skin may be fatal. Exposure may result in fetal death.
    Long-term exposure may result in  kidney or liver damage. 
    Irritant." 

    Attack should only be used when you have excellent ventilation and
    full safety gear; gloves, goggles, apron etc. I can tell you from
    personnel experience it will go right through many types of rubber
    gloves, viton or neoprene gloves are highly recommended. 

    If you are willing to experiment then most hardware stores have a
    paint and epoxy remover that contains methylene chloride that you
    could try soaking you item in but as with all these types of
    projects using strong solvents you need to decide if you are willing
    to risk damage to the items involved. 

Jim Binnion

James Binnion Metal Arts
Phone (360) 756-6550
Toll Free (877) 408 7287
Fax (360) 756-2160
http://www.mokume-gane.com
jbin AT mokume-gane.com
Member of the Better Business Bureau

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