I bought some 2x2 ziploc bags (not the ziploc brand bag) but the packaging does not shown the plastic used. How can I safely test for PVC without involving burning stuff? It does have plastic smell but not like shower curtain.Thanks
Buy some pure acetone, pour some into a ceramic or glass bowl, then put one of the bags into it. If the bag starts to "melt" it has PVC in it. Generally, if it's used for food, it'll be PVC free, IIRC.
Many plastics dissolve in acetone, and not just PVC. Dip a PCGS slab ( no PVC) in acetone and watch it melt If you use acetone in the presence of slabs or hard plastic type holders, you can get frosted surface where a drop may fall or splatter. I am not sure about air-tites, but I seem to remember damaging one when I used to use them years ago, maybe not. Unless the plastic bags say " Do not use for food storage", I would be 99.999 % sure they have no PVC. The flame test is still a good one, but you don't have to burn the whole bag. Heat a needle up and touch it to the bag to melt a little on the needle and then put it back into the flame. If it burns green or greenish blue ( CHlorine), I wouldn't use it. Yes, you should use a platinum needle, but few have those around.
Yeah, that's what I thought, but I wasn't 100% positive, and I don't want to go out giving advice I'm not ready to stand 100% behind, ya know?
The only thing on the outside package is "100 BAGS 2x2 2MIL". That's it. There is no claim that it is safe for food.
Id be a little leary of a 2x2 "non ziplock" ziplock. Those smaller ones are used for everything from illegal drugs to jewelry. Chances are they are not food safe. IMO
Now I have a better understanding of the bag. I tested similar bags from Walmart ( 2x3 size) , Chinese 99 cent store ( 2x2), and an unknown source 2x2, and all tested no chlorine by the flame test. They are very flexible and appear to be polyethylene, which are quite safe, but can't be sure about yours. I use them for mineral samples before anyone asks for a toke. Jim
I use FoodSaver vacuum seal bags. I called the company and asked about PVC in their products. They said " their is no PVC". I then asked what their material is made of and they said '' polypropylene'' which I understand is a very low out gassing material. So far all my coins are perfect. I reccommend this product for coins and currency. There is no guess work. Anybody want to see some pictures?
