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Chemistry (including Biochemistry)/Ink solvents and cleaners

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Expert: - 2/28/2004


Question
I like to refill my own inkjet cartridges, but need something to clean the inkjets now and then.  Can you recommend a good, safe-to-use solvent?  On Google I found mention of glycol ether products (ethylene glycol phenyl ether) and wonder if that would do it.  If so, where can I get it, or any alternative you can suggest?

Answer
Your only two choices are rubbing alcohol and the material they sell at Office supply stores.  Anything else is not going to be cost effective and/or may harm the inkjets.  And of course you said safe.  Even rubbing alcohol is not totally safe.  

Henry Boyter, Jr.
PhD Chemist

The opinions expressed are those of Dr. Boyter and
are provided for informational purposes only and
should not be used as advice.  No warranty or
expression of professionalism is implied.

Chemistry (including Biochemistry)

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Dr. Henry Boyter, Jr.

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Experience in the area
Chemistry (non-biochemistry), environmental science, occupational health and safety, environmental regulation and management, environmental engineering, and wastewater engineering. I'm the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety and the Director of Research at the Institute of Textile Technology.

Experience

Chemistry (non-biochemistry), environmental science, occupational health and safety, environmental regulation and management, environmental engineering, and wastewater engineering. I'm the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety and the Director of Research at the Institute of Textile Technology.

Education/Credentials
PhD, MS, BS in Chemistry

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