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Should You Use Acetone on a Surfboard?

Acetone is an organic chemical which has minimal health risks. It is widely used through the manufacturing industries because it it is both environmentally and biologically inconsequential. When combined with other materials, however, the properties of acetone pose health concerns to its handler. Acetone has been widely used by surfboard crafters in constructing and repairing fiberglass boards. Education is key to using acetone on a surfboard.

Solvent Use
- Acetone will dissolve wax residue and surfboard alike.
  
  Acetone dissolves wax residue from surfboards effectively. It is used to clean fiberglass from tools as well as in constructing, painting and repairing boards. When used on a finished board to remove wax, it will also remove the board's thin glass finishing coat, eventually damaging and removing underlying artwork. There are other products on the market that remove wax from boards without damage. Check with your local surf shop.
Metabolic By-Product
- Acetone can be made by the body or in a labratory.
  
  Acetone alone has a low toxicity rating to humans. It is a chemical created by the human body during the metabolic release of energy. Acetone is readily accepted by skin tissue and flows uninhibited through it. Bottled acetone has a higher density than that created by the body, and can cause skin irritation after physical contact. Inhalation of fumes may cause a mild sore throat.
Toxic Carrier
- Acetone easily carries what it dissolves into the body on contact.
  
  When acetone makes contact with wax, paint, fiberglass or finish, chemical changes occur. The surfboard materials dissolve into the acetone. It is no longer just a human by-product, but becomes a carrier for toxins and carcinogens. If contact is made, human flesh will absorb the biologically friendly acetone, which is now a carrier of deadly toxins.
Environmental
- Acetone is highly flammable.
  
  Studies performed by the Environmental Protection Agency have proven acetone to have minimal adverse impact on nature. It is widely used by major manufacturers in food processing, textiles, cosmetics and photographic industries. Acetone is the active ingredient in nail polish removers. Adverse consequences occur when acetone is combined with chemicals which are proven hazards. Acetone is also flammable.
Safety
- Acetone can be used to create a board without harming the surfer.
  
  Take safety precautions when working with acetone, using the manufacturer's recommendations. It is still an industry standard to use acetone in surfboard construction and repair. Acetone should not be used to remove wax from a board, posing a direct health hazard to the user and damage to the board. A variety of board wax removers are available that don't contain the chemical. Ask your local surf shop personnel for advice before selecting one.

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