Homebrew PCBs

Addition to Mars Bonfire' comments:

There are at least three compositions that are generally called "xylene".
The molecular composition of each of the three is slightly different
and each will (perhaps) react to copper (or anything else) in different 
ways.

In addition, xylene (any composition) is really tricky stuff to have 
around the house.

M.B. is most likely correct when he states that the "lacquer thinner" 
material in question is most likely more effective in
clearing the bare copper surface of contaminants that hinder toner adhesion.

This is just my take.......those with more knowledge will probably add 
more to the discussion.

Roland F. Harriston, P.D.
*******************

Mars Bonfire wrote:
>  
>
> Checked a number of data sheets for lacquer thinner, none are or 
> contain xylene.
>
> My experience using lacquer thinner for non PCB purposes is that it is 
> a more aggressive, more volatile solvent than most. As such, I could 
> understand why it is more effective in removing organic surface 
> contaminants from the PCB, but as far as leaving a "good" film on the 
> board that promotes adhesion or converting the copper to something 
> that is better sounds suspect. My guess is that is that it is just a 
> better solvent or what was being used before was contaminated with 
> something that interfered with adhesion.
>



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