Results 1 to 3 of 3

Thread: canada balsam: how thin?

  1. #1

    Join Date
    Nov 2017
    Posts
    654

    canada balsam: how thin?

    I got the canada balsam and xylene. The canada balsam is the synthetic variety but also in xylene as used for microscopy. Rather thick stuff, almost like liquid honey.

    I tried to glue a (polyester) filter between 2 old 6x6 slide glasses. Was a terrible mess. I think the balsam is too thick. But what is about the right viscosity? Can you thin it too much? (probably if too much xylene it will set to quick)
    Expert in non-working solutions.

  2. #2

    Join Date
    Jan 2009
    Location
    Denmark
    Posts
    6,246

    Re: canada balsam: how thin?

    Sorry, just seen this!
    “Too much xylene it will set too quickly”
    No - the reverse is true!
    Never be afraid of thinning too much.
    If you warm both glasses up to around 60 degrees C, you will find a “blob” placed in the bottom of the concave lens surface will be quickly pushed out to the edges.
    Thick balsam will encourage annoying air bubbles.

  3. #3

    Join Date
    Nov 2017
    Posts
    654

    Re: canada balsam: how thin?

    Thanks! I have no problem with waiting a bit longer. Problem is that this is gelatine between 2 flat glasses. Now it is thinned to something like culinary cream.
    Expert in non-working solutions.

Similar Threads

  1. Washin Canada Balsam?
    By Mark Sawyer in forum LF DIY (Do It Yourself)
    Replies: 3
    Last Post: 15-Jun-2019, 12:16
  2. Canada Balsam - no longer available?
    By Steven Tribe in forum LF DIY (Do It Yourself)
    Replies: 18
    Last Post: 18-Jun-2017, 01:00
  3. More adventures with Canada Balsam
    By Steven Tribe in forum LF DIY (Do It Yourself)
    Replies: 6
    Last Post: 27-Oct-2013, 13:12
  4. replacement of Canada Balsam?
    By jack_hui in forum Lenses & Lens Accessories
    Replies: 9
    Last Post: 29-Nov-2009, 15:48
  5. Canada Balsam
    By lungovw in forum Lenses & Lens Accessories
    Replies: 9
    Last Post: 18-Jun-2008, 18:43

Bookmarks

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •