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PLEXIGLAS® SHEET: REMOVING DRIED MASKING PAPER


It may be difficult to remove dried masking paper from Plexiglas® sheet that has been exposed outdoors or has been stored for long periods of time, particularly under conditions of heat or high humidity. When the sheet is to be thermoformed and the masking paper is only moderately tight, flash heating the sheet for 60 seconds at 360ºF will loosen the paper enough for easy stripping in most cases. In more stubborn cases, we recommend a solution called "Cyclone" sold by Duron Company, Philadelphia, PA. In order to remove "baked on" masking paper from Plexiglas, we suggest using "Cyclone" full strength. However, "Cyclone" can be diluted by adding water (25% water - 75% Cyclone) for less extreme cases.

Thoroughly soak the masking paper with the solution and allow 10 minutes for it to penetrate the masking paper adhesive or until the masking paper adhesive softens and can be peeled away. For more difficult masking removal make a scraper using Plexiglas only. Using Plexiglas as a scraper will do little harm to the surface being scraped. However, make sure that all surfaces being scraped are kept dirt-free. Small areas of adhesive residue are removed by using isopropyl alcohol and "Cyclone" mixed on a soft cloth. Then wash with water.

"Cyclone" is a highly concentrated degreasing and cleaning agent. In addition to the supplier's instructions, use impermeable gloves, avoid skin contact and use adequate ventilation.

"Cyclone" should be available through any Duron store. It is a non-combustible solution and should be used whenever possible where masking paper removal is a problem. Only use the solutions that are listed below as a last resort if "Cyclone" is not available.
  1. Kerosene - Ultrasene (Highly Refined Only)
  2. Turpentine - Steam Distilled Only
  3. Hexane - use only "iso-hexanes" which contain minimal amounts of "normal" isomer.
Because of crazing, toxicity, flammability, etc., we recommend extreme caution when using the above solvents. Obtain safety and use information from the suppliers. Follow instructions carefully.

Source of Supply for "Cyclone"
Duron Company
5000 Ridge Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19128
215-483-1220

The statements, technical information and recommendations obtained herein are believed to be accurate as of the date hereof. Since the conditions and methods of use of the product and of the information referred to herein are beyond our control, Arkema expressly disclaims any and all liability. NO WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WARRANTY OR MERCHANTABILITY, OR ANY OTHER WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IS MADE CONCERNING THE GOODS DESCRIBED OR THE INFORMATION PROVIDED HEREIN. The information provided herein relates only to the specific product designated and may not be applicable when such product is used in combination with other materials or in any process. The user should thoroughly test any application before commercialization. Nothing contained herein should be construed as an inducement to infringe any patent, and the user is advised to take appropriate steps to be sure that any proposed use of the product will not result in patent infringement.

See MSDS for Health and Safety Considerations.

© 2006 Arkema