On Thu, 12 Dec 1996, Gary Roberts wrote:

> Here's a little tidbit from a paper conservation text I was reading today...
> 
> In order of potency, least to most, these are the solvents recommended for
> removing adhesives from paper:
> 
> heptane
> benzine
> toluene
> acetone
> ethyl alchohol

The term "potency" is misaplied in reference to solvents. The solvent
properties in this list is directly related to the "polarity" of the
material to be dissolved. The list starts with the least polar, heptane to
most polar, ethyl alcohol. 

A good rule of thumb to describe "polarity" is how closely a given material
resembles water. For the most polar materials, say water based pigments,
the most polar solvents in the list, acetone and ethyl alcohol will be
most effective and the others non-effective. An oil based paint,
relatively less polar, will dissolve in heptane (cruder paint thinner is a
mixture of similar products) and hardly at all in ethanol.

Acetone is probably the best "universal" solvent for glues and other 
similar materials but it must be used very carefully to avoid damage to 
other surfaces.

Other folks have commented on spelling and health issues but from my point
of view using small amounts of solvents in a well ventilated area presents
minimal risk. The carcinogenic properties of benzene are well documented
but the exposure one gets from occasional use in small amounts is
negligable. 

Don Stern