Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Cleaning Dirty Lab Glassware

Many our glassware were dirty. Most of them difficult to be cleaned by detergent and water.
Especially our separating funnel used to analyze additives containing methanol [affil links] and aromatic hydroxide compounds. We mix the additive with sodium chloride and acid (MSA).
Then extract with ethyl acetate .

After washing with water, a white stain is attached to separating funnel. Usually we discharge the glassware.
Do you have idea how to clean it?

I already tried by using oxidizer and ethanol, but it cannot be cleaned.

Bintan
electronics - Lobam, Riau Island, Indonesia
2003

Although it sounds like some type of organic you might want to try concentrated Nitric Acid. Nitric acid seems to take care of most inorganic stuff, but might help your problem too.

Jason D [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
- Grand Rapids, Michigan
2003