MEK

[Mike4116]

The bottom of my Zodiak inflatable has pulled away from the tubes. About an 8" section needs to be re-glued. I picked up the repair adhesive from a marine hardware store and the fix looks pretty straight forward. However, the directions on the adhesive recommend that I clean the area to be glued with MEK (methyl ethyl ketone). Does anyone know where this stuff is available? I know it's a pretty strong and dangerous chemical and due care needs to be exercised while applying it. I don't recall seeing MEK on the shelves of any hardware store, marine or otherwise that I've been in lately.Thanks,Mike

 

[mike workman]

mke

try acetone . i'm not familiare with inflateables but acetone is in the same group of chemicals(dimethyl ketone). its most likely for cleaning (prep)the area to be glued . so you use a strong solvent . acetone is available at most paint stores and is used for fiberglass work . i think they share the same health risks.see this if you'r concerned. http://www.ccohs.ca/ .i would test some acetone on a sample piece of material first . keep a window open and don't smoke ! good luck i hope this helps. mike

 

[bruce cornell]

MEK should be available at any marine supply that sells epoxy stuff, cloth and mat etc. think i even saw it in wally world...

 

[Mike4116]

Thanks gents

Thanks fellas. I wouldn't have guessed that the stuff was so easy to obtain since it is a powerful carcinogen.MG