WARNING - POISON

Category:

   Other

Submitted By:

   En'til Zog

Tip:

   A lot of people are now using methyl ethyl ketone for a solvent cement for plastic. It's even coming in some 'all in one' kits as the glue (with cheap acrylic paint). There's only one small problem with it. If it's anything like the methyl ethyl ketone peroxide hardner for polyester resin, it can 'sensatize' your immune system with repeated inhalatin or skin contact.

So what? That can kill you.

I used to do a lot of casting with polyester resin, using MEK catalyst. I am now 'senstized' to the presence of MEK to the point that it can be LETHAL TO ME if inhaled even in small amounts. A friend was building a model in the same room I was watching a movie in, using MEK as a solvent, and my breathing passages started to close up. Panic time. Fortunately, going outside into fresh air ended the attack very quickly, but really showed me the hazards of certain chemicals we work with.

When working with solvent cements, paints, and God alone knows what other chemicals, do so with adequate ventilation, or (really) wear a chemical protection mask with the appropriate filters for the organic chemicals you are using.

Modeling in a gas mask? Silly? Maybe, until you find yoursel gasping for breath because you are now 'sensatized' to come chemical you thought was harmless.

Me, I'm adding a vent system like a chemical 'hood' in my new home for modeling and painting. I'm not giving up the hobby, but I don't want to give up breathing either.