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"Light" vs "heavy" solvents
GregS:
I have a bottle of "ceramic coating" that is for applying to the exterior surfaces of vehicles, primarily painted surfaces. I believe the main active ingredient is SiO2. It is a liquid, and is spread thinly, and then buffed off, like a wax or sealant.
The product description says it is resistant to "light solvents". I asked the manufacturer for clarification, but their response was not helpful.
What exactly is a "light" solvent? Can a "heavy" solvent be rendered "light" by diluting it with a "light" solvent?
Borek:
--- Quote from: GregS on December 18, 2020, 01:11:47 AM ---What exactly is a "light" solvent?
--- End quote ---
I am not sure it is unambiguously defined. I would expect it to mean a liquid made of compounds (mostly hydrocarbons) of a low molecular mass.
--- Quote ---Can a "heavy" solvent be rendered "light" by diluting it with a "light" solvent?
--- End quote ---
I would say yes.
Assuming "light" and "heavy" relates to the average molecular mass of the compounds in the mixture there is a continuum: some solvents are light, some heavy, some in between. Adding a light solvent to the heavy one makes the mixture to sit in between the original ones. Adding more and more of the light solvent makes the mixture more and more similar in the composition to the original light solvent.
billnotgatez:
Could this be light exposure vs. heavy exposure?
Corribus:
--- Quote from: billnotgatez on December 18, 2020, 05:22:23 AM ---Could this be light exposure vs. heavy exposure?
--- End quote ---
That was my initial thought as well. Like: a few drips that you wipe off immediately vs a four hour soak in acetone.
GregS:
Thanks everyone. I suspected it wouldn't have a clear answer. I'm going to contact the manufacturer again, and ask them to give an example of a "light" solvent, and a "heavy" solvent. 😉
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