Letter 26023

Sealant for copper to keep it from tarnishing [New Hampshire] 

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I have recently retired from teaching and am back at school learning to make jewelry. I'd like to work with copper, brass, etc, but hate how they quickly tarnish. IS THERE SOME SEALANT THAT CAN BE USED ON COPPER (and brass)?? I see jewelry in the stores that have high polish sealant on the copper and brass, so there must be something. thanks!

Debi W [last name deleted for privacy due to age of posting]
hobbyist & Student - Barnstead, NH, USA

For short term tarnish resistance, copper is treated with benzotriazole or similar chemicals. For longer term tarnish resistance it needs to be lacquered or clear coated.

 
Ted Mooney, P.E.
finishing.com Inc. - Brick, NJ

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