1 INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this project was to compile information about the materials used in proprietary paint strippers. Letters were written to 29 paint stripper companies requesting product information, Material Safety Data Sheets, and references to any literature on the subject. Nineteen responded. Several companies offered the name of a person to answer more specific questions. Other paint stripper formulations were found in public records, including information from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Patent Office.

The information acquired offers insight into commercial thought processes for choosing solvent combinations and may lead to the formulation of more appropriate paint strippers by those working in the field of art conservation.