Keith Wrage <keith.wrage_at_charter.net> wrote: >One issue of building these in the winter is the epoxy fumes. >> I thought the new epoxies were more or less 'fumeless' - that the sanding dust is the problem? I know with the older fiberglass resins were a stinky lot to say the least. >> Newer epoxy resins certainly are less obnoxious to the human nose. Nonetheless, Melissa's extra care of wearing a "respirator" may be good advice, inasmuch as there is still some volatility and that __may__ lead to sensitization [as can sanding not-fully-cured epoxy without protection]. In addition, skin contact is a well-documented cause of sensitization. Sensitization is a highly individual thing, although the anecdotal evidence supports the idea that continued exposure enhances the risk of sensitization. In the distant past, I was sloppy with my technique, and many times got uncured resin on my hands. Not since 1998, though. I always glove up. And when I sand, I always use a serious particle filter mask -- even on "fully cured" resin. Once you are sensitized, your days of fabricating with epoxy are pretty much over. BTW, "respirator" has many different meanings. I assume Melissa refers to one of the canister-equipped face mask units that actually trap organic vapors, and that she keeps it in a sealed container between uses, and that she tosses the canister before it is used up. A simple dust mask is not enough. Melissa, care to elaborate on what you are using? Dana Dickson has some expertise here that may be worth hearing. Hope he speaks up. -- Dave Kruger Astoria, OR *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Fri Feb 28 2003 - 18:04:24 PST
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