I think I would limit the definition of a surfactant to a substance that reduces the surface tension of a liquid in which it is diluted, in this case of water. This allows the water to be "wetter", to penetrate better. Whether this also results in faster drying may be true, but I am not so sure it's a good thing, if so. If water plus surfactant (usually a nonionic detergent) dries, then it leaves a residue. In addition to isopropanol, my RCM concoction also includes a few drops of surfactant per gallon or so, and I usually use Tween20 or Triton X100. (I think Dawn is fine in this application, too.) But I always rinse with pure distilled water to avoid leaving a residue. My results have been better since I added the distilled water rinse cycle.
How much isopropanol is effective but safe for viny?
I make my own cleaning fluid using isopropanol and distilled water but am aware that some think IPA is not good for vinyl. Since the contact time is quite limited I think that it is probably OK to use a small amount as a solvent for greasy contaminants. What do you thing know is a safe level? 25 percent, 10 per Cent , or some other level??
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- 51 posts total
- 51 posts total