making co2 for chemistry storage?

[Photo Engineer]

Just FYI, these el-cheapo tanks are not very reliable.

I kept my Bernzomatic tanks in the garage for safety if I have any as once, a few years ago, I smelled gas in my basement shop. Examination of the Bernz bottle on my workshop, about 1 L in size, I found that the valve on top was leaking very slowly.

I moved my 2 bottles outside. Then I found that the second unused one was beginning to leak, so I vented all of the gas from both in the driveway and discarded both tanks in the recycle bin. Now, I only buy it when I need it and discard the remainder.

PE

 

[jbj]

I'm too lazy to find the thread from a two or three years ago, but my recommendations are the same: inert gas bubbled through the solution (argon is my favorite, nitrogen works too). This displaces dissolved oxygen which is the culprit for oxidation, also argon being dense will also slow more oxygen dissolving.

For those that prefer CO2 despite much advice to the contrary I suggest instead dropping crushed CO2 flakes into the mostly full bottle and quickly capping it tightly.

 

[fotch]

There was another thread a while ago about using a product like "Wine preserve spray" which has inert, heavy gases (nitrogen, carbon dioxide and argon). I found a can at a wine store for about $12. I also found a link where you can buy a case (12?) for about $4 each.

I also purchase a bunch of small 250ml brown glass bottles so eliminate most if not all air so I may not even need the gas.

Similar product on the auction site http://cgi.ebay.com/Private-Preserve-Wine-Preservation-Spray_W0QQitemZ120105973780QQcmdZViewItem

 

[Ed Sukach]

This is the BernzOMatic "Mini Torch". built like a Leica with a very efficient variable valve. fits in your pocket. If you choose to light it, excellent for soldering.

 

[gainer]

As ststed before, CO2 is not inert in developer solutions. It changes pH.