Silicone chemistry cleaning

[Cory]

Im wondering when resiliconing an old aquarium, after i scrape all the old silicone off i scrub the glass with steel wool (it doesbt scratch the glass) what is the best cleaner?

Im thinking vinegar, as you dont want oils, or dirt. Plus isnt silicone vinegar based so it wont effect the chemistry of silicone if its left behind?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Silicone isn't vinegar based. An acetate piece comes off during the curing reaction, smelling like vinegar, but the silicone itself isn't soluble in vinegar.

That said, its a fine last step in cleaning.

 

[Cory]

Silicone isn't vinegar based. An acetate piece comes off during the curing reaction, smelling like vinegar, but the silicone itself isn't soluble in vinegar.

That said, its a fine last step in cleaning.

Okay thanks, didnt know that lol. What is the best available option for cleaning? Its just silicone doesnt bond to old silicone good

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

You cannot dissolve silicone with anything you'd want to use at home. The steel wool is a good way, physically removing it.

 

[Cory]

You cannot dissolve silicone with anything you'd want to use at home. The steel wool is a good way, physically removing it.

Thanks, just curious would you use vinegar or alcohol or both? No reactions if i use both cleaners?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Thanks, just curious would you use vinegar or alcohol or both? No reactions if i use both cleaners?

No reaction. What kind of alcohol?

 

[Cory]

No reaction. What kind of alcohol?

Iirc isopropyl alcohol? The stuff they use for cleaning you cant drink lol

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Isopropanol would be good for removing organics. I'd use the 91% type over the 70% type.

 

[wowkingjames]

Thanks for the info.