Removing New (slit) Self Adhesives From Paper

From all the discussions on how to remove the new security stamps from paper, it seems we now have a common answer to this poser.

90% of emails and replies to online groups suggest using Ronson lighter (spirit) fuel in conjunction with cotton buds. If this catches on we could see a new selling and buying trend, people selling these products in the philately listings on eBay.



I am still testing alternative methods, dipping (soaking) in alcohol, and conventional soaking with water in a microwave have proved to be partly successful. I do not have at this time enough of the new security stamps to test other methods or to give a conclusive verdict on these methods tried. Watch this space.

The most accepted method using the Ronson and bud products , may turn out to be a little tedious as only one stamp at a time can be handled or worked on in all safety. I will get back to safety aspect of using these products in a short while.

I have not as yet tried this method myself. First we must soak the stamp, It is suggested to use a cotton ball dipped in lighter fuel and apply to the rear of the stamp on paper, after a few seconds it is said that is is easy to remove the stamp from the backing paper. Once removed from the envelope use a fresh cotton bud dipped in lighter fluid to remove any excess gum. Dry flat.


Health and safety warnings


I thought I had better check out the safety aspects of using these products. The cotton buds should not pose any serious problem provided you do not poke them in your ears.

The Ronson fuel however is a different kettle of fish. The list is endless.

Harmful or fatal if swallowed. Flammable mixture. Do not use near fire or flame. Keep out of reach of children. May be harmful by skin contact. First Aid: If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Call physician immediately. Acute Health Effects: From MSDSInhalation: Vapors may be irritating to the nose, throat and respiratory tract. High vapor concentrations may produce central nervous system (CNS) depression. Early to moderate CNS depression may be evidenced by giddiness, headache, dizziness and nausea. In extreme cases, unconsciousness and death may occur. Aspiration pneumonitis may be evidenced by coughing, labored breathing and cyanosis (bluish skin). In severe cases death may occur.Eye Contact: Liquid is mildly irritating to the eyes. High vapor concentrations may be irritating.Skin Contact: Liquid is mildly irritating to the skin. Prolonged or repeated liquid contact can result in defatting and drying of the skin which may result in skin irritation and dermatitis.Ingestion: Ingestion of product may result in vomiting: aspiration (breathing) of vomitus into the lungs must be avoided as even small quantities may result in aspiration pneumonitis.Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: Preexisting eye, skin, and respiratory disorders may be aggravated by exposure to this product.Chronic Health Effects: From MSDS Skin effects. Male rats exposed by prolonged and repeated inhalation to high vapor concentrations of solvents similar to components in this product showed evidence of kidney damage. The relevance of this information to man is unknown. In one study on a solvent similar to light naphtha, a low grade anemia was also observed.

I think after reading all this I will be giving it a miss.