__ Bob __ wrote:
Don Phillipson wrote:

Stan wrote:

Is there a way/method for extending the shelf life of Minwax Wood
Putty after the jar has been opened?



"__ Bob __" wrote


Open the lid .. blow in a little propane from a torch .. close the lid.
Propane, being heavier than air will sink to the bottom, effectively
keeping the oxygen away from the putty, which needs oxygen to cure/dry.



Of you could simply store the cans upside down.

How would storing the can upside down stop the air already in the can
from starting the curing process ??


I don't think it's as much the little bit of air "stored" above the
contents which causes the hardening as it is the pressure differentials
between the inside and outside of the container caused by temperature
and atmospheric pressure changes. Those cause solvent vapor out and air
leakage in through the minute gaps around the lid, which almost never
seals perfectly once its been opened.

Having the contents resting against the seal joint is better, because
it's a lot harder to force liquid through a small leak than solvent
vapors or air, plus the contents will dry in the leak and seal it.

I started storing all my partially used cans of paint upside down about
20 years ago and know they "keep" much better that way.

The last can of "Plastic Wood" I bought had it's can's "label printing"
upside down with instructions to store it lid end down for the reasons
mentioned above.

Works for me,

Jeff

--
Jeffry Wisnia
(W1BSV + Brass Rat '57 EE)
The speed of light is 1.8*10^12 furlongs per fortnight.