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Non-ionic
detergents such as NP40, Triton X-100, Tween20 or The
Kodak Companies Photo Flo are recommended by many
experts for cleaning gravestones. These chemicals are
electrically neutral cleaning agents that neither
contain or contribute to the formation of soluble salts.
They are neither soapy (normal soaps are Ionic
detergents), nor do they affect pH. By decreasing the
wash water's surface tension non-ionic detergents reduce
droplet formation on the stones surface. In general they
have been proven to provide a better overall wetting of
the stones surface that other detergents and as a
result, produce better results in the removal of general
soiling.
Non-ionic detergents are
available from conservation, janitorial, and
photographic suppliers in various sizes. Photo Flo is
the most common Non-ionic detergent. It is extremely
concentrated and currently available in either 50ml or
500ml sizes. A recommended cleaning solution is one
ounce non-ionic detergent to 5 gallons distilled water.
If you do not use up
all that you have made it will keep for about a month
before it starts to develop "floaties" and will need to
be disposed of. You may want to bring a small spray
bottle of water for gently cleaning dirt and
debris from the stone. Wash stone with solution, then
rinse stone with clean water. |
