In the world of DIY projects and automotive maintenance, we often encounter situations where we need to clean stubborn grime and grease. Brake cleaner, with its powerful solvent properties, seems like a quick and easy solution. However, before you reach for that can, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences of using brake cleaner on plastic. While it effectively removes brake dust, oil, and grease, its harsh chemicals can damage certain types of plastic, leading to discoloration, cracking, or even complete destruction. This blog post delves into the intricacies of using brake cleaner on plastic, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and protect your valuable belongings.
Table of Contents
Understanding Brake Cleaner
Brake cleaner is a highly effective solvent designed to remove brake fluid, oil, grease, and other contaminants from automotive brake systems. It typically contains a blend of solvents, such as hydrocarbons, ketones, and alcohols, which evaporate quickly, leaving behind a clean surface. These solvents are powerful enough to break down even the most stubborn grime but can also be detrimental to certain materials, including plastics.
Chemical Composition of Brake Cleaner
The specific chemical composition of brake cleaner varies depending on the manufacturer and intended use. However, common ingredients include:
- Hydrocarbons: These are organic compounds composed of hydrogen and carbon, known for their ability to dissolve grease and oil.
- Ketones: These are organic compounds containing a carbonyl group, known for their strong solvency properties.
- Alcohols: These are organic compounds containing a hydroxyl group, known for their ability to dissolve polar substances.
The combination of these solvents creates a powerful cleaning agent but also poses a risk to certain plastics.
The Impact of Brake Cleaner on Plastic
Not all plastics are created equal. Some plastics are more resistant to chemicals than others. Brake cleaner’s harsh solvents can attack the molecular structure of certain plastics, leading to a variety of adverse effects:
Discoloration
Brake cleaner can cause plastic to become discolored or faded. This occurs when the solvents react with the pigments in the plastic, altering their chemical composition and appearance.
Cracking and Brittleing
Some plastics, particularly older or brittle ones, can become cracked or brittle when exposed to brake cleaner. The solvents can weaken the plastic’s molecular bonds, making it more susceptible to damage. (See Also: Brake Lights Not Working When Braking? Fixing The Issue)
Melting and Deformation
In extreme cases, brake cleaner can melt or deform certain types of plastic. This is particularly true for plastics with low melting points or those that are already weakened.
Identifying Plastic Types
Before using any cleaning product on plastic, it’s essential to identify the type of plastic. Most plastics are marked with a resin identification code (RIC), a number enclosed in a triangle symbol. This code indicates the type of plastic and its properties.
Resin Identification Codes (RICs)
| RIC | Plastic Type | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | PET or PETE (Polyethylene terephthalate) | Clear, strong, lightweight, recyclable |
| 2 | HDPE (High-density polyethylene) | Rigid, durable, recyclable |
| 3 | PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) | Hard, durable, resistant to chemicals, not easily recyclable |
| 4 | LDPE (Low-density polyethylene) | Flexible, transparent, recyclable |
| 5 | PP (Polypropylene) | Strong, lightweight, heat-resistant, recyclable |
| 6 | PS (Polystyrene) | Lightweight, rigid, brittle, not easily recyclable |
| 7 | Other | A mix of different plastics |
Understanding the properties of different plastics can help you determine their susceptibility to damage from brake cleaner.
Safe Alternatives to Brake Cleaner for Cleaning Plastic
If you need to clean plastic surfaces, it’s best to opt for safer alternatives to brake cleaner. These include:
Mild Soap and Water
For general cleaning, a solution of mild soap and water is often sufficient. This method is gentle on most plastics and effectively removes dirt and grime. (See Also: Who Invented the Railroad Air Brake? A Safety Revolution)
Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is a good option for cleaning greasy or sticky residue from plastic. It evaporates quickly and leaves behind a clean surface.
Specialized Plastic Cleaners
There are many commercially available plastic cleaners that are specifically designed to be safe and effective on various types of plastics. These cleaners often contain gentle surfactants and solvents that effectively remove dirt and grime without damaging the plastic.
Conclusion
Brake cleaner is a powerful solvent that can effectively remove brake fluid, oil, and grease from automotive components. However, its harsh chemicals can damage certain types of plastic, leading to discoloration, cracking, or even complete destruction. Before using brake cleaner on plastic, it’s crucial to identify the type of plastic and consider the potential risks. For general cleaning, opt for safer alternatives such as mild soap and water, isopropyl alcohol, or specialized plastic cleaners. By making informed decisions and using appropriate cleaning methods, you can protect your valuable plastic belongings and ensure their longevity.
FAQs
Can I use brake cleaner on plastic dashboards?
It’s best to avoid using brake cleaner on plastic dashboards. The harsh solvents can damage the plastic and cause discoloration or cracking. Instead, use a specialized dashboard cleaner or a mild soap and water solution.
What happens if I accidentally get brake cleaner on plastic?
If you accidentally get brake cleaner on plastic, immediately wipe it away with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the cleaner and cause further damage. If discoloration or other damage occurs, consider contacting a professional for repair.
Is there a safe way to use brake cleaner on plastic?
There is no truly safe way to use brake cleaner on plastic. The solvents are inherently harsh and can cause damage. It’s best to avoid using brake cleaner on plastic surfaces altogether and opt for safer alternatives. (See Also: How Often to Change Brake Pads Miles? The Ultimate Guide)
Can brake cleaner be used to clean plastic headlights?
Brake cleaner is not recommended for cleaning plastic headlights. The solvents can damage the plastic lens and reduce its clarity. Use a specialized headlight cleaner or a mild soap and water solution.
What are the best practices for cleaning plastic surfaces?
When cleaning plastic surfaces, always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as these can scratch the plastic. Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water and dry it completely to prevent water spots.
