| How to Fix Broken Plastic Posted: 20 Feb 2018 04:00 PM PST Most people assume that it's less of a hassle to dispose of broken plastic pieces than it is to try to repair them. But plastics are easier to work with than you might realize. The key to an invisible fix is to first break the solid plastic down into a liquid so that it can blend with the intact surface and form a stronger bond. If a standard plastic glue isn't enough to do the trick, try using a soldering iron to melt the edges of the fractured plastic. A strong chemical solvent like acetone can even dissolve some types of plastic entirely, allowing you to paint them onto the damaged piece wherever needed. EditRepairing Small Pieces with Glue - Buy a tube of high-strength plastic glue. If you're attempting to fix a chipped edge or reattach part of a larger object, a strong adhesive may be all you need. Plastic glues are specially formulated to create bonds between plastic surfaces on a molecular level. Look for a product that's designed for use with the type of plastic you're repairing.[1]
- Most standard super glues can also be applied to plastics with good results.
- You'll find a wide selection of plastic glues, super glues, and similar craft adhesives at your local hardware store or home improvement center.
- Be sure to pick up enough glue to tackle your project without running out.
- Spread the glue over the edges of the broken piece. To ensure a secure hold, dab the adhesive everywhere that it will connect with the larger object. Hold the tube in your dominant hand and squeeze gently to release a little bit of glue at a time. That way, you won't have to worry about accidentally using too much or making a goopy mess of your work area.[2]
- Wear rubber gloves when working with plastic glue to prevent the adhesive from getting on your skin.
- Press the plastic piece into place. Line up the edges carefully—plastic glues dry quickly, so you may only get one shot. Once the piece is in position, apply constant pressure for 30 seconds to a minute. This will prevent it from slipping while the glue begins to set.[3]
- It may help to tape the broken piece down or set a weighted object on top of it to hold it steady.
- A C-clamp can come in handy for holding together oddly-shaped items.
- Allow the glue to cure. Different types of glue have different drying times. As a general rule, however, you'll want to wait at least 1-2 hours before handling the newly-repaired item. Otherwise, there's a chance that the broken piece will come loose and you'll be right back where you started.[4]
- Some types of glue may take up to 24 hours to cure completely.
- Follow the drying instructions outlined on the product's packaging to see what additional drying tips the manufacturer recommends.
EditFusing Plastics with a Soldering Iron - Glue the broken piece back into place. Start by reconnecting the separated surfaces and anchoring them with a powerful plastic adhesive. You'll need to have both hands free to safely operate the tools you'll be using to seal up the damage.[5]
- Use just enough glue to hold the pieces together. It's possible for the heat from the soldering iron to react with certain types of adhesive and cause discoloration.
- When you're dealing with a crack, split, or clean break, melting down the plastic may be the only way to rejoin it.
- Heat up your soldering iron. Switch on the soldering iron and set it to the lowest temperature setting. You can begin getting your other components ready while the heating element warms the iron. This process may take several minutes.[6]
- Don't set your soldering iron higher than about . Fusing plastics doesn't require nearly as much heat as fusing metals.
- Before you get started, clean the tip of the iron with a damp sponge to remove any residue from past projects.[7]
- Use the soldering iron to melt the edges of the plastic. Rake the tip of the iron lightly over the joint where the two surfaces connect. The intense heat will instantly liquefy the soft plastic on either side, which will then merge together and reharden. The result is a connection that's much more durable than glue.[8]
- Whenever possible, solder the pieces together along the backside so that the resulting seam will be less visible from the front.
- For your own safety, always don protective eyewear while operating a soldering iron. It's also a good idea to wear a respirator or breathing mask and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling noxious fumes from the plastic.[9]
- Patch large holes with scrap plastic. If there's a whole section missing from the item you're trying to repair, see if you can dig up a replacement piece with a similar color, texture, and thickness. You'll fuse the patch the same way you would a normal crack—run the tip of the soldering iron along the edges of the new piece until it melts into the larger surface.[10]
- Ideally, the scrap piece should be the same type of plastic as the rest of the item. However, you should be able to fuse mismatched plastics successfully in most cases.[11]
- Sand the resulting seam to blend it. Go over the edge where the two pieces connect with a square of high-grit sandpaper (around 120-grit) until the most obvious imperfections have disappeared. When you're done, wipe the item with a damp cloth to remove any dust generated by sanding.
- For an even smoother finish, use basic sandpaper to wear away larger inconsistencies like bumps and ridges, then switch to an ultra-fine variety (300-grit or higher) to even out the surface.
EditSolvent Welding Plastics with Acetone - Fill a glass container with acetone. Set out a drinking glass, jar, or deep bowl with a large opening and pour in of pure acetone. The container needs to be full enough to completely submerge multiple pieces of plastic. Choose a container that you don't mind ruining in case you have trouble removing every last trace of plastic when your project is finished.[12]
- It's critical that whatever container you use be made of a material like glass or ceramic. You want it to dissolve the plastic you'll be using for, not the cup that's holding it.
- Acetone gives off powerful fumes, so be sure to work somewhere with good ventilation.[13]
- Place a few pieces of scrap plastic into the acetone. Stir the pieces with a toothpick to help them settle. The should be totally immersed at the bottom of the container. If necessary, add another splash of acetone to cover the tops of pieces with irregular dimensions.[14]
- For a more natural looking repair job, try to find plastic in the same color as the item you're repairing.
- Avoid touching the acetone. It can cause mild irritation if it comes into contact with your skin.[15]
- Leave the plastic to dissolve overnight. As it soaks in the acetone, it will slowly break down to form a thick, goopy slurry. The exact amount of time this takes will vary depending on the type of plastic you're working with and how much you're melting down. Play it safe and let it sit for at least 8-12 hours.[16]
- Cutting or breaking the plastic into smaller pieces may help speed things along. The more surface area it has, the faster the acetone will act on it.[17]
- The slurry should have a smooth, creamy consistency and be free of lumps or chunks before you attempt to use it to weld other pieces together.
- Pour out the excess acetone. Once the heavier plastic has dissolved entirely, it will separate from the acetone and sink to the bottom of the container. Drain the liquid into the sink so that only the plastic slurry remains. You'll use this as a filler to make your repairs.[18]
- It's okay if there are traces amounts of acetone left in the container. It will quickly evaporate on its own.
- Brush the slurry into the damaged area. Dip a thin paintbrush or cotton swab into the liquefied plastic and dab it into the space between the two broken pieces. Try to work it as deep into the joint as possible. Continue dipping and brushing until you've filled in all cracks and gaps.[19]
- If possible, apply the slurry to the back or underside of the piece so it won't be as noticeable.
- Use as much of the plastic as you need to successfully seal up the damaged area (you'll probably end up with quite a bit left over).
- Give the plastic time to harden. Within minutes, the last traces of acetone will vaporize and the slurry will form a chemical bond with the surrounding plastic. Avoid disturbing the conjoined pieces in the meantime. Once the new plastic has had time to solidify, the item will be almost as good as new.[20]
- The new joint will be about 95% as strong as the original plastic.[21]
- Before you invest time and effort into a complicated fix, consider whether it's worth it. Cheap plastic items may be replaced without the need for a lot of gluing or welding.
- Whenever possible, use fillers and patches of the same type of plastic as the piece you're repairing.
- Plastic cable ties are a great source of scrap material for more involved projects. They even come in a variety of different colors, which can be useful for finding a closer match.
- Always follow the proper safety precautions when using a soldering iron. If you're unfamiliar with how to operate the tool, ask someone with experience to lend you a hand.
- Don't smoke around acetone, or handle it near an open flame. Both the liquid and its fumes are highly flammable.
EditThings You'll Need - Plastic glue or superglue
- Low-wattage soldering iron
- Pure acetone
- Glass container
- Paintbrush or cotton swab
- Facemask or respirator
- Rubber gloves
- High-grit sandpaper
- Sponge
- Tape
- Toothpick
- C-clamp (optional)
EditSources and Citations
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| How to Support an Addict Posted: 20 Feb 2018 08:00 AM PST You want to help someone you care about who has an addiction, but where do you start? Sometimes, it's difficult to determine what actions are supportive and which ones are enabling. One of the best ways to support a loved one is by encouraging treatment. Additionally, offer your emotional support by lending a listening ear and showing empathy for them. If you choose to share your resources with the person, set boundaries and only give what you are comfortable giving. EditProviding Emotional Support - Express your concern. The earlier you express your concern, the better. Talk to the person about their behaviors and what you find dangerous or harmful. Discuss specific examples of their behavior that worry you.[1]
- When talking, do your best to remain nonjudgmental in your words. Approaching the person with judgment can cause them to feel defensive.
- For example, say, "When you came home last night, you were noticeably drunk. I'm concerned that your use is causing you to drive home unsafely, which puts you and other people at risk."
- Avoid nagging or pushing the person to change. You can't force a person with addiction problems to change. You can only help them find the motivation within themselves to change.
- Show empathy. Empathy is a way to connect with another person's thoughts and feelings. Even though you are not going through the same experiences, you can imagine what it would feel like. Empathy can be a beacon of hope for someone with an addiction, as they often feel alone or like nobody understands their struggles or pain.[2]
- Show the person with addiction that you care and can empathize with how they feel. A feeling of connection can help the person feel valued, human, and not alone.[3]
- Some something like, "I know you're struggling, and I'm sorry you've had difficult experiences. I've never had a traumatic childhood, but I can see how much it's affected you and hurt you."
- Listen to them speak. Be a supportive friend by engaging in good listening skills. Let the person talk about their thoughts and feelings. Avoid interrupting them or completing their thoughts for them. Instead, put your attention onto listening and understanding what they say. Some people with addiction problems struggle with understanding their thoughts and feelings, and having the opportunity to express them can help them sort through these aspects of their life.[4]
- For example, instead of planning what you will say next, tune into the person's verbal and nonverbal language.
- Help show them their strengths. Remind them of all the good qualities they have. Go over all the things they've accomplished and succeeded at with them. Showing the person their strengths can help empower them so they're ready to make lifestyle changes.
- Remind the person that their addiction doesn't define them and that they're separate from their addiction.
- Disengage from enabling practices. There's often a fine line between supporting and enabling behaviors. If you're having a hard time distinguishing these behaviors from one another, note whether you keep secrets for the addict, lie to other people to protect the addict, cover up for their problems, or blame other people for their behavior. These are all enabling behaviors, not things that 'good friends' do for each other.[5]
- If you catch yourself enabling the person, cut off those actions immediately. Tell the person with addiction problems that you want to support them, but refuse to enable their drug use habits.
EditSupporting Them in Seeking Help - Clarify whether the person wants help. Ask the person outright whether they are willing to seek help or not. This can help you determine the best way to support them by knowing what they want. If they hesitate or refuse to get help, be firm in your boundaries so you do not contribute to any enabling behaviors. If they do want help, however, be enthusiastic about your support and ask what you can assist with.
- Knowing what the person wants can help you determine what kind of support to give. For example, you may be willing to offer more support to someone who actively wants treatment than someone who refuses treatment.
- Encourage them to seek help. One of the most supportive things you can do is to encourage them to seek treatment and help them research a place to go. Help them explore their options and encourage them to seek a new start through rehabilitation.[6]
- Say to the person, "I care about you, which is why I want you to get help. I don't know the best way to support you through this difficult time.
- One way to help is to see what kind of care they qualify for, given their insurance or eligibility. That way, you can present these options to them knowing that it won't cause a financial burden to them.
- Discuss drug rehabilitation options. Discuss treatment options with the person so that they know what methods are available to them. This might include attending a group, seeing a counselor, completing a detox, going to therapy, attending residential rehabilitation, or undergoing medication assisted treatment. These choices may vary based on the severity of the addiction and what the person can afford.[7]
- Some treatment may be covered in part or in full by insurance. It's best to contact the person's insurance provider before making arrangements for treatment.
- If they're nervous about getting treatment for their addiction, try easing them into it by attending an AA, NA, Smart Recovery, or Celebrate Recovery meeting with them.
- Keep in mind that it's possible for the person to recover without seeking treatment. Don't give up if they aren't interested in seeing a professional.
- Affirm your support of them getting help. Keep repeating your encouragement for seeking treatment. Whether they refuse help or are in the process of getting help, let them know that you care about them and believe that getting professional help is the best way forward.[8]
- Knowing that they have your support throughout addiction, treatment, and recovery can help a person continue their journey and keep a positive outlook, even when things get hard.
- You can say, "I'm so proud of you that you're willing to get help. I know that's a difficult step, and I commend your bravery in moving forward."
EditSupporting them with Your Resources - Set appropriate boundaries in your relationship. People suffering from addiction problems often lack the ability to set or engage in appropriate boundaries, so it's up to you to be clear and firm in your own boundaries. Some boundaries to consider include limiting financial support, only talking to the person when they are sober, not loaning your car to them, and not giving the person access to your children when they use. While it's up to you what boundaries you set, be firm in implementing and enforcing them.[9]
- If the person who's addicted tries to bend or break a boundary, firmly say, "We've discussed this and I'm not moving from what I said."
- Don't feel bad for setting boundaries. By setting boundaries, you're being a good role model for your friend by showing them what healthy behavior is.
- Give what you want to give. Whether you have lots to give or very little to give, be mindful in what you share with the person. Don't let them pressure you into giving more than what you want to or can give. This goes for things like money, food, rides, favors, a place to live, etc. You alone are in control of what you're willing to give and provide for the person.
- If a request puts a strain on you, your family, your finances or other resources, don't feel pressured to help or support them in this way.
- If you feel uncomfortable agreeing to something the person asks for, don't be afraid to say, "I'm sorry, I can't do that for you this time."
- Only give financial support if you're OK with not being paid back. Even if the person promises to pay you back, there's a chance they won't. If you're going to give them money, understand that you may not be getting it back.
- Help them avoid triggers. If you're supporting the person by giving rides or providing a place to live, do so in a way that helps them to avoid triggers. You might even set boundaries while the person is with you to deter them from using, spending time with people who use, or getting back into bad habits.[10]
- Encourage the person to make friends who are clean, enjoy activities outside of alcohol and drugs, find a job, and get clean.
- Offer to take the person to see support specialists or to a social inclusion program to help them with their recovery.
EditTaking Care of Yourself - Engage in self-care. Supporting someone with an addiction can be exhausting, so don't forget to take a few moments for yourself each day. Give yourself some love by taking care of your mind and body. This might mean doing some meditation, enjoying a cup of tea or coffee, or petting your dog. Slow down and take a few moments to breathe deeply, relax, and enjoy your senses.[11]
- Some other ideas might include taking a bath, going for a walk, or getting a relaxing massage.
- Connect with others who support an addict. Find a group for people who have a friend or family member with a drug problem. This can connect you with other people who know what it's like to support someone with an addiction and can remind you that you're not alone.[12]
- Connecting with other people can help you get advice, share your concerns, and relate to other people in a similar position.
- Visit https://al-anon.org/ or http://www.nar-anon.org/ for resources and support while you're helping the person with their addiction.
- Do your best, but remember that you cannot 'fix' them. While supporting someone with an addiction is a kind and noble act, remember that despite your best efforts, you cannot force change on the person. They are responsible for their actions and choices. If they choose to use while you support them, remember that it's not your fault and you are not to blame.[13]
- Always encourage the person to seek treatment. This is one of the best ways to be supportive and put positive change in their hands.
EditSources and Citations
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| How to Wear an N95 Face Mask Posted: 20 Feb 2018 12:00 AM PST If you're in an area with poor air quality levels, or if an infectious illness has been going around, wearing an N95 face mask is a great way to protect your lungs and overall health. Built to filter out dangerous particles, the N95 is a lightweight and relatively cheap way to breathe clean air and stay healthy. EditShort Summary 1. Use an N95 face mask to protect yourself from particles in the air. This includes biological particles like viruses. It won't work well if you'll be around oil aerosols.
2. Hold the mask over your nose and mouth with the straps hanging down.
3. Pull the bottom strap over your head and place it under your ears. Then set the top strap above your ears.
4. Mold the top metal piece around your nose and breathe out a few times. Feel for any leaks. Adjust the fit as needed to create a tight seal.
5. Throw the mask away after use if you've been wearing it in a medical setting. Otherwise, you can safely reuse it, as long as it stays dry and creates an airtight seal around your face. EditChoosing Your Face Mask - Choose an N95 face mask to filter out particles in the air. N95 face masks are a great choice for protecting your lungs from particles in the air, which could be metal fumes (such as those caused by welding), minerals, dust, or biological particles, such as viruses. You can wear one when there's been a flu outbreak in your area, or if pollutants or a fire has made air quality poor. These masks are made of structured, lightweight foam and fit over your nose and mouth.[1]
- Specially-made versions are also available for people in industrial jobs, and surgical N95 face masks are available for those in health care professions.
- The number refers to the percentage of particles that the mask can filter out. The N95 mask filters out 95% of dust and particulates.
- N95 masks shouldn't be used if oil aerosols are present, as oil damages the filter. The "N" actually stands for "Not resistant to oil."
- Go with an R or P mask if you'll be exposed to an oily atmosphere. In cases where you face exposure to mineral, animal, vegetable, or synthetic oils, look for an R or P designated mask. The "R" stands for "somewhat oil-resistant," which means it will protect you from oil vapors for a time limit specified on the packaging. The "P" stands for "oil-proof or strongly resistant."[2]
- These masks also come with number classifications, such as P100 and R 95. The numbers stand for the percentage of particles they filter out.
- If you're exposed to gases or vapors which are more concentrated than the exposure limits of these masks, looks for a respirator that uses special canisters or cartridges to filter the air even more effectively.
- Try on different sizes to get the best fit. Depending on the particular N95 mask you choose, available sizes range from extra small and small to medium and large. If possible, try on a couple sizes before you purchase one. Make sure the mask feels snug and doesn't slip on your face, remembering that you'll also mold it to your face for an even tighter fit. If you're not sure, go for a smaller size to make sure the mask won't fall off.
- Check with your doctor if you have a respiratory or cardiac condition. N95 face masks can make it more difficult to breathe, especially if you have a chronic cardiac or respiratory condition. Talk with your doctor to see what extra precautions you can take. You may be able to use a model with exhalation valves, which can ease breathing and lessen heat build-up in the mask, although these versions shouldn't be used if you need to maintain a sterile environment, like an operating room. Talk to your doctor before using if you have any of the following conditions:[3]
- Breathing problems
- Emphysema
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Asthma
- Cardio-pulmonary problems[4]
- Buy a NIOSH-certified N95 face mask from hardware stores or online. You can get an N95 mask at hardware or home improvement stores and pharmacies. You can also purchase directly from online retailers, like 3M. It's important to only choose masks that are certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). These masks will have the NIOSH logo and a certification approval number on the packaging or the mask.[5]
- If you need an N95 mask for your job, your employer will likely be required to provide it.
- Masks that aren't NIOSH-certified may not provide good protection.
- Stock up on face masks so you'll be ready when you need them. Face masks tend to have large spikes in demand and sell out fast during certain times, such as during an outbreak of an infectious illness or when a region experiences intense pollution. Be prepared by having some on hand for you and each of your family members at all times. Aim to have 2-3 masks per family member to be on the safe side.
- Take your local environment into account when stocking up on masks. You'll need more if you live in a big city with notable pollution problems, for example, than if you live in a more rural environment with cleaner air.
EditFitting Your Mask Properly - Trim your facial hair before wearing your mask, when possible. If you know you need to wear an N95 mask, shave off all facial hair. It can get in the way of the mask and prevent a tight, sealed fit, which will compromise the effectiveness of the mask.[6]
- If it's an emergency situation and you don't have time to shave, fit the mask on as best you can.
- Wash your hands well before putting on your mask. Use soap and water and dry your hands well so you don't get the mask wet. This will prevent you from accidentally contaminating your mask before you put it on.[7]
- Cup the mask in one hand and place it over your mouth and nose. Place the mask in the palm of your hand so that the straps face the floor. Set it over your nose and mouth with the nosepiece fitting over the bridge of your nose. The bottom should go just under your chin.[8]
- Try to touch only the outside and edges of the mask to keep it clean.
- Pull the bottom and top straps over your head. If your mask has two straps, pull the bottom one over your head and secure it around your neck, just under your ears. Continue to hold the mask tightly against your face with the other hand. Then, pull the top strap over and set it above your ears.[9]
- Mold the nose piece around the bridge of your nose. Set your first 2 fingertips on either side of the metal nose clip at the top of your mask. Run your fingers down both sides of the strip, molding it along the bridge of your nose.[10]
- If your mask doesn't have a nosepiece, simply make sure the fit is tight and snug around your nose.
- Look for alternate solutions for children. N95 masks are not designed for children and won't fit correctly on them. Instead, keep children inside as much as possible if air quality is poor. Take extra precautions in case of flu outbreaks, such as having kids wash their hands before meals and after sneezing or coughing. You can also try using masks made specifically for children, although they won't be N95-designated.[11]
- Don't use an N95 mask on children younger than age 17-18.
- Older teenagers can try on an N95 mask to test the fit and comfort. If it fits well and forms a tight seal, have them try walking around with it, paying close attention to any feelings of dizziness or difficulty breathing. If these symptoms occur, have them remove the mask and go inside.
EditChecking the Seal and Removing Your Mask - Breathe through the mask and test for leaks. Set both hands against the mask and take a breath to make sure that it seals against your face. Then exhale, feeling for any leakage from the nosepiece or around the edges. If you feel air leaking from the nose area, re-mold the nosepiece. If it's coming from the edges of the mask, adjust the placement of the straps on the sides of your head.[12]
- If your mask still isn't completely sealed, ask a friend or family member for help, or try a different size or model.
- Remove your mask by pulling the strap over the top of your head. Without touching the front of the mask, pull the bottom strap over your head. Let it hang down over your chest. Then, pull the top strap over.[13]
- You can either throw the mask away or store it in a clean, sealed container or bag.
- Avoid touching the mask itself, as it might be contaminated.
- Throw away your mask if you used it in a medical setting. If you used your mask with an ill patient, or as a way to prevent getting sick in an outbreak, the outside of your mask is likely contaminated. Disposing of it properly will ensure that you won't come into contact with contaminated particles. Carefully hold the mask by the straps and throw it away in a trash can.[14]
- Re-wear your mask as long as it stays dry and fits tightly. If you're using the mask to protect from environmental hazards and it hasn't come into contact with harmful germs, it should be fine to wear again. Test the seal of your mask each time you put it on to make sure it still fits snugly. Store your mask in a clean, sealed container or bag and make sure it doesn't get bent out of shape by surrounding objects.
EditSources and Citations
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