Frequently Asked Questions about PolyGone

What is PolyGone used for?

PolyGone is used to remove cured polysulfide (PRC, Flamemaster, AC Tech), silicone (GE, Dow, Rhodia, NuSil, Wacker) and other tenacious sealants and adhesives.

How does it work?

PolyGone penetrates the polymer to cleave it into smaller parts emulsifying the polymer.  This emulsification prevents re deposition and enables easy rinsing.

What approvals does PolyGone have?

PolyGone has passed Boeing’s D6-17487 with the exception of paint softening and Douglas’ CSD #1 with the exception of acrylic crazing.

Can PolyGone be used as a degreaser?

Yes.  However, we recommend TRAMOS as a more economical degreaser.

How long does it take to work?

This depends on the type of polymer, thickness of the polymer, temperature, agitation, and age of the PolyGone.

Is it hazardous for transportation?

No. PolyGone is not hazardous to ship.  PolyGone contains no EPA Listed ingredients.

Is it a solvent?

Yes and no.  PolyGone does not dissolve polysulfide like sugar dissolves in water.  The PolyGone actually breaks the bonds of the polysulfide into small parts so that it can emulsify.

Can it be used in parts washers or ultrasonic tanks?

Yes.  PolyGone is compatible with numerous metals and plastics.  Ultrasonics actually decreases the amount of cleaning time by 75%.  Heat, up to 49°C (120°F), can also be used to decrease cleaning time by 50%.

Will temperature effect performance?

Yes, elevating the temperature of the PolyGone will improve its performance.  See above.

How do I know when it is not working anymore?

When the item/part no longer gets clean in the typical cleaning time for your particular application.  When you first start using PolyGone, it is worthwhile to note the initial cleaning time for reference and comparison.

How do I dispose of it?

PolyGone may be disposed of with your other solvents.  The material does have a high heating value and can be burned for fuel value.

Can it be filtered?

Yes, PolyGone can be filtered and this is recommended to extend the life of the material.  A 10-micron filter is usually sufficient.

Can it be reused?

The PolyGone can continue to be used until it no longer digests the sealant.  Once the material no longer works it must be disposed of.

Does it smell?

PolyGone does have a slight odor.  As the ingredients are not listed, no special breathing apparatus is required.  However, we do recommend using in a well-ventilated area.

Do you have to wear breathing apparatus?

No, see above.

Will it remove epoxies?

PolyGone will remove some epoxies.  The best way to determine this is to send RPM Technology a sample of the material you want to remove so we can determine which solvent is best for your application.

Will it migrate under fayed surfaces?

RPM Technology performed a simple test at a large MRO facility.  This test demonstrated no material migration between surfaces during the time required to remove the subject sealant.

Does PolyGone attack the primer?

To this date, we have not seen any effect on the usual chromate primer used on commercial aircraft.  RPM Technology is currently working with the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) to determine it there is any effect officially.