Dip Strip contains caustic soda. DO NOT take internally. Avoid direct contact with skin and clothing. DO NOT inhale dust or allow contact with eyes. If accidental contact does occur, flush freely with water and obtain medical attention.
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), also known as lye, caustic soda and (incorrectly, according to IUPAC nomenclature) sodium hydrate, is a caustic metallic base. Sodium hydroxide forms a strong alkaline solution when dissolved in a solvent such as water, however, only the hydroxide ion is basic. It is used in many industries, mostly as a strong chemical base in the manufacture of pulp and paper, textiles, drinking water, soaps and detergents and as a drain cleaner. Worldwide production in 1998 was around 45 million tonnes. Sodium hydroxide is a common base in chemical laboratories.
Pure sodium hydroxide is a white solid; available in pellets, flakes, granules and as a 50% saturated solution. It is deliquescent and readily absorbs carbon dioxide from the air, so it should be stored in an airtight container. It is very soluble in water with liberation of heat. It also dissolves in ethanol and methanol, though it exhibits lower solubility in these solvents than potassium hydroxide. It is insoluble in ether and other non-polar solvents. A sodium hydroxide solution will leave a yellow stain on fabric and paper.
Set Up:
Place chemical strip into cold melting pot. The melting pot should have an adjustable temperature control from 500° to 900° F (260° to 482° C). The chemical strip should melt at or about 500° F (260° C). When bubbling has ceased, and any cloudiness disappears, it means that entrapped air and/or moisture has been driven out. Now increase temperature to desired setting. For most materials there will be little or no advantage in exceeding 730° F (388° C). Chemical strip will be subject to deterioration, with breakdown occurring at about 900° F (482° C).
Operation:
1. Immerse the item to be stripped into the melted chemical strip to the level of desired strip. As the chemical strip reacts with the insulation, a bubbling action will occur. Complete removal of the insulation is indicated when the bubbling ceases. At this time remove the item from the chemical strip.
2. Remove with water any chemical strip that has been carried out on the stripped item. In the case of copper, (where a slight amount of oxidation may occur) it is recommended that chemical strip metal cleaner be used after water rinse. If it appears that the item was prematurely removed from the chemical strip, be sure it is dry before returning it to the pot. This will avoid dangerous boiling and spattering.
