Submitted by rot in DIY (edited )

styrofoam (polystyrene) dissolves in acetone or limonene. Limonene is a terpene product derived from citrus oils so it's pretty "natural" The dissolved plastic can be painted onto unfinished wood to waterproof and preserve it.

note: I don't know if this finish is food safe or how durable it is. I'd also like to try different plastics

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86944 wrote

Sounds flammable.

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rot OP wrote

it is. be careful and mix it outside or in a well ventilated area

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86944 wrote

I meant from a fire safety perspective. Modern houses already go up in flames fast, I can't imagine coating everything in plastic would help.

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rot OP wrote

once the solvent evaporates it should be fine. most finishes are plant oil (linseed, walnut, tung oil) or petroleum/plastic (acrylic, polyester, nitrocellulose, polyurethane) based anyway

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asg101 wrote

Styrofoam dissolved in gasoline makes a gel similar to napalm. Or so I have heard.

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rot OP wrote

part of the reason i prefer limonene is that it doesn't make a gooy mess like gasoline does. acetone does this too if you dont use enough solvent

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