RE: [AV Media Matters] Transcript Discs

[hkaplan@sos.state.ga.us]

>Cetrimide is a generic name for n-cetyl ammonium bromide and should be
>available from chemical supply companies.
>
>Eucalyptus oil is a mild solvent which we have observed to
>work well on all manner of sticky, greasy or oily contamination.

>HFE's (hydro fluoro ethers) are good solvent based cleaners
>for lacquers, and can be used with care on cracked or flaking lacquer
>discs.  HFE 7100 is a good replacement for Freon TF.

>These solvents are safe, but  can be quite expensive.

In that there are individuals on this list with varying degrees of
expertise, I think it would be of great benefit if contributors could
be a bit more specific when alluding to the safety of the materials
they describe.  I have quickly attempted to locate MSDS on all of the
substances described above, but was unable to find adequate
information that would lead me to believe these materials can be
considered "safe" in the way that word would be most widely interpreted.
Please keep in mind that many of us have learned to understand that
"use in a well ventilated area" really means in a fume hood and/or
with a respirator.  "Safe" will depend on the manner of use. Also keep
in mind that your workspace may be shared by others and that your
air may be recirculated to other parts of a building in which unsuspecting
individuals may be susceptible to contamination.

I have been cautioned that no ether (especially a fluorine compound)
can be very safe for inhalation and that there is probably a dermal question

as well.  In addition, all refrigerants are considered nasty to some degree
and are aphyxiants in tight unventilated quarters.

Hilary A. Kaplan
Conservator
Georgia Department of Archives and History
330 Capitol Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30334
404 656 3554
FAX 404 651 8471
hkaplan@sos.state.ga.us