AUTOMOTIVE AND GENERAL REPAIR PRODUCTS:WINDSHIELD WIPER FLUID AND WOOD GLUE

WINDSHIELD WIPER FLUID

Windshield wiper fluid is composed of methanol, water, and a detergent to help remove dirt accumulated on automotive windshields. Methanol was first produced from the destructive distillation of wood—hence the common name “wood alcohol.” Industrially, it is produced from natural gas (methane) but can also be produced from almost all organic materials, such as coal, wood, agricultural wastes, and garbage. High-temperature decomposition of these materials results in carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen gases. These gases are catalytically converted to methanol, which is an important starting material for a number of industrial chemicals, such as formaldehyde plastics (Bakelite), antifreeze, rocket fuel, and polyester plastics.

The freezing point of methanol is –97.8 degrees centigrade; therefore, it remains liquid even at frigid winter temperatures. Mixing methanol with ice has the effect of depressing the freezing point of water; a mix- ture of water and methanol has a freezing point less than that of pure water alone. Thus, it helps to remove accumulated snow and ice on the windshield and prevents the windshield from becoming covered with ice. Methanol is highly toxic. Inhalation of methanol can lead to abdominal cramps, weakness, dizziness, and confusion. Ingestion of even small amounts of methanol can lead to blindness and death. Because of the inherent toxicity of methanol, several alternatives have been used for keeping windshields clear of ice and dirt. Ethanol-based washer fluids have been used successfully without the toxicity problems associated with methanol- based products.

WOOD GLUE

Wood glue, or polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glues, are the most common adhesives on the market. Glues come in a variety of formulas, all only slightly different, and specific to what they are designed to glue. In general, PVA glues are designed to work on porous materials and clean up easily because they are water based. They need pressure and air circulation to adhere to surfaces and maintain the strength of the bond. These glues are relatively safe consumer products because they do not emit any harmful fumes and are not hazardous to touch. PVA glues are only toxic if ingested.