Zinkpest ? for Frank H !

[robert60446]

Angus, I know I'm a litle late in this but do you mean 100% alchohol that we drink or something like rubbing alchohol? Thanks for your help. Robert

I guess he means pure spirits…Vodka is rated at 40% (80 proof) top, so it is not powerful enough.

[Eric Gaumann]

Angus, I know I'm a litle late in this but do you mean 100% alchohol that we drink or something like rubbing alchohol? Thanks for your help. Robert

What kind of sick individual would waste good booze on zincpest?!?!?!?!
There *are* priorities in life ya know...

Do *not* soak your medals in beer.

[anguspm]

Hi Robert,

Referring to alcohol of 100% proof with no impurities. Sometimes sold as "Surgical spirit".

Regards,

Angus

[robert60446]

Hi Robert,

Referring to alcohol of 100% proof with no impurities. Sometimes sold as "Surgical spirit".

Regards,

Angus

Dear Angus,
This is exactly what i was thinking of. However we should point out that this grade of alcohol is for external use only!!!

[Ron Weinand]

Mineral Oil

Over the years, I have found that the best way to retard any type of degradation on badges is the application of mineral oil or virgin olive oil. This prevents Zinc pest and makes the badge look nice. HOWEVER, the heavier applications tend to draw dust, along with contaminates that will cause some badges to darken and others to become spotty over the years.
To avoid this, I use a Q-Tip and use light applications just to seal the surface and use caution when choosing the badge to apply the substance to.
One other problem can arise: some plated surfaces (eg. numbered badges) that have some bubbling or breaks in the finish CAN BE PENETRATED BY THE OIL that MAY lift the finish.
You can see this happening when chrome plated bayonet blades have had the veteran apply oil and, over time, it penetrates the surface where there is a crack or opening and the chrome will bubble and flake off.
This can also occur with a painted surface where the oil will seep under the painted surface through a crack in the paint and cause it to flake over the years.
Therefore, you must select your items carefully to avoid these problems and, when done correctly, this type of oil will prevent Zinc pest degradation.
Ron Weinand
Weinand Militaria
PS: On solid bronze badges this oil can make a great difference and they look simply wonderful with a light application and it will prevent spotting or darkening from occurring.