Author: beheerder

Denatured alcohol – what is it and why is it used?

Denatured alcohol – what is it and why is it used?

Denatured alcohol is regular ethanol that producers intentionally make undrinkable by adding substances such as isopropanol (IPA), methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), Bitrex, or methanol. These additives make the alcohol bitter, unpleasant, or toxic, so no one can drink it and no excise duty has to be paid. This keeps ethanol affordable and available for technical applications, such as cleaning, degreasing, cleaning electronics, as a solvent in laboratories and industry, and as a fuel for methylated spirits.
Chemically the effect remains the same, but due to denaturing the alcohol falls outside the liquor laws.
This article explains how and why ethanol is denatured, which substances are used for this process, and what you can safely use this alcohol for—from household use to professional laboratory work.

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Cleaning electronics: safely clean your laptop, keyboard and circuit board

Cleaning electronics: safely clean your laptop, keyboard and circuit board

Cleaning a laptop, keyboard, or circuit board doesn’t have to be complicated. By regularly dusting your electronics and safely removing grease or dirt, you extend their lifespan and prevent malfunctions. Always handle with care: unplug the power, use compressed air or a soft brush for dust, and use a residue-free solvent like isopropyl alcohol for stubborn dirt or grease. This way, you’ll keep your laptop, keyboard, and circuit board in top condition.

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The best products for removing glue

The best products for removing glue

This article discusses the best products for removing adhesive, including acetone, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, mineral spirits, and commercial adhesive removers. Acetone is powerful and effective on hard, non-porous surfaces, but can damage some materials. Vinegar offers a milder, more environmentally friendly alternative, suitable for wood and glass. Rubbing alcohol is versatile and safe for most surfaces, while mineral spirits is effective for paint-related adhesives on wood and metal. The article emphasizes the importance of safety precautions such as wearing gloves and ventilating the area. Commercial adhesive removers are convenient and effective, but tend to be more expensive and often contain the same solvents as cheaper alternatives, with the benefit of clear instructions.

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Removing glue from stairs

Removing glue from stairs

This article provides a comprehensive guide to removing adhesive residue from stairs, regardless of the material of the stairs (wood, metal, or concrete). It begins with the important step of removing as much of the covering as possible before tackling the adhesive. It then discusses specific methods and products for each surface type. For wood stairs, it recommends using white vinegar or mineral spirits, while acetone and commercial adhesive removers are effective on metal stairs. Concrete stairs can be treated with a sander, heat, or solvents. The article also emphasizes important safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and working in a well-ventilated area, to ensure a safe and successful cleaning.

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Removing adhesive residue from various surfaces

Removing adhesive residue from various surfaces

This article explains how to safely remove adhesive residue from various surfaces such as wood, glass, plastic, metal, and fabric. Specific methods are recommended for each type of surface, such as using cleaning vinegar on wood and glass, isopropyl alcohol on plastic, and acetone on metal. It is important to test products on a small, inconspicuous area of the surface first to avoid damage. Important safety precautions are also discussed, such as wearing gloves, working in a well-ventilated area, and avoiding contact with eyes and skin. It is also recommended to keep chemical solvents out of the reach of children and pets. This approach helps to effectively remove adhesive residue without damaging the surface.

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How do you thin paint?

How do you thin paint?

The article explains why thinning paint is necessary and how to do it correctly. Thinning paint is important when paint has become too thick due to aging or evaporation of solvents. Different types of paint require different thinners: water for acrylic and latex paint, turpentine for oil and alkyd paint, thinner for automotive paints and epoxies, and white spirit for alkyd paint when using a paint sprayer. The article provides step-by-step instructions for thinning paint, including the benefits of each thinner and practical tips for an even finish. and video shows how to determine the correct thickness of paint and thin it correctly.

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Impregnating wood against moisture

Impregnating wood against moisture

Impregnating wood against moisture is important to protect the material against weather influences and wear, so that it lasts longer and retains its appearance. There are various methods, each with their own properties. Boiled linseed oil penetrates deeply and helps the wood to resist moisture, but requires regular maintenance. Tar and creosote are traditional agents that provide a durable finish, especially for outdoor use. Waterproof stain and lacquer or varnish create a sealing layer on the surface. For applications with direct water contact, epoxy resin offers particularly strong protection. Certain agents based on borates are suitable for additional surface treatment, but are less effective in long-term exposure to moisture. The choice of the right treatment depends on the specific application and environmental factors.

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Treating wood with linseed oil

Treating wood with linseed oil

Boiled linseed oil, a natural product from flax seeds, is ideal for protecting wood, metal and concrete from moisture and weather. Before treating wood, the surface must be clean, dry and free of grease. Sand the wood, apply the oil with a brush and let it soak in for 30 minutes. Treat dry areas again and remove excess oil with a lint-free cloth. Then let the wood dry for 24 hours. Linseed oil should not form a layer but should be absorbed into the wood. Pay attention to safety when storing used cloths to prevent spontaneous combustion. Regular maintenance is necessary for lasting protection and a beautiful finish.

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How do you lye wood?

How do you lye wood?

Wood lyeing is a process where wood is treated with a caustic solution such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide to remove impurities and give it an aged appearance. This step-by-step plan includes preparing the wood, applying the lye solution, neutralizing and rinsing, and drying and finishing. Safety precautions are essential due to the toxicity of the lye. Although it can produce beautiful results, there are disadvantages such as the loosening of wood joints, the need for sanding, and the unsuitability of MDF and chipboard. Follow the guidelines carefully for a safe and successful result.

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