Unlocking the Mystery: A Comprehensive Guide to Creating Homemade WD-40

Ingredients

50% Aliphatic Hydrocarbon: This is the primary ingredient and serves as the carrier and solvent.
25% Petroleum Base Oil: This is considered the acting lubricant and is also used to remove moisture.
15% Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Propellant): This helps to propel the solution out of the can.
10% Inert Ingredients: These are non-active ingredients that help with the overall effectiveness of the product.

Steps and instructions

Acquire a suitable, sterile container that can withstand pressure and can be properly sealed.
Pour the 50% aliphatic hydrocarbon into the container. This acts as the solvent.
Add the 25% petroleum base oil to the container. This will serve as the lubricant and help in moisture removal.
Incorporate the 15% liquefied petroleum gas (propellant) to the mixture. This must be done carefully as it is under pressure.
Add the 10% inert ingredients to the solution. These improve the overall effectiveness of the product.
Seal the container securely, ensuring that it is airtight.
Shake the container vigorously to thoroughly mix the ingredients.
Allow the mixture to sit and stabilize before use.

Tools for making

Sterile Container - A suitable container that is free from contaminants and can be sealed tightly to prevent any leaks.
Measuring Equipment - Tools such as graduated cylinders or measuring cups to ensure accurate measurements of the ingredients.
Sealing Mechanism - A method to securely seal the container, such as a screw-on lid or airtight closure, to prevent any leakage or evaporation.
Mixing Tool - A device or utensil that can be used to thoroughly mix the ingredients together, such as a stirrer or blender.
Safety Gloves - Protective gloves to ensure safety while handling the ingredients, especially if they may cause irritation or are hazardous.
Safety Glasses - Protective eyewear to shield the eyes from any potential splashes or spills during the mixing process.

Recipe variations

Adjust the ratio of the ingredients: Makers can experiment with different ratios of the primary ingredients to achieve different properties or effects.
Add scent: Some makers may wish to add a small amount of scented oil or fragrance to give the solution a pleasant smell.
Include rust inhibitors: To enhance the rust prevention properties, makers can introduce small amounts of rust inhibitors to the mixture.
Use eco-friendly alternatives: Makers who are environmentally conscious may explore using eco-friendly solvents, oils, or propellants in place of the conventional ingredients.
Customize with additives: Makers can experiment with adding specific additives such as corrosion inhibitors, degreasers, or anti-friction compounds to tailor the solution for specific applications.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our detailed recipe for creating your own version of WD-40! This versatile product is renowned for its ability to lubricate, cleanse, and protect metal surfaces. It's a staple in garages across the world and now, you can create it right in your own home. This recipe will guide you through the process of combining aliphatic hydrocarbon, petroleum base oil, liquefied petroleum gas (propellant), and inert ingredients to formulate a DIY version of WD-40. You'll need a pressure resistant, sealable container and the ability to handle these materials safely. Once completed, you'll have a homemade product that functions as a reliable moisture displacer, grease cutter, and rust prevention solution. Let's start crafting!

Common questions

Can I substitute the ingredients? It is not recommended to substitute the ingredients as they have been carefully formulated to achieve the desired results. Altering the ingredients may affect the effectiveness and safety of the final product.
Can I adjust the proportions of the ingredients? It is important to maintain the specified proportions of the ingredients for the recipe to work properly. Modifying the proportions may result in an ineffective or unsafe product.
What safety precautions should I take? When handling and mixing the ingredients, ensure proper ventilation and avoid contact with eyes, skin, or clothing. It is advisable to wear protective gloves and goggles. Keep the mixture away from open flames, heat, and sparks.
Where can I find the ingredients? The required ingredients, such as aliphatic hydrocarbon, petroleum base oil, and liquefied petroleum gas, can be obtained from hardware stores, automotive supply stores, or chemical suppliers.
Can I use this recipe for specific applications? WD-40 has a wide range of applications, but it is always important to consider the manufacturer's recommendations for specific uses. This homemade version may not have the same specifications or performance as commercially produced WD-40.
How should I store the homemade WD-40? Store the homemade WD-40 in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation or leakage.

Serving dishes and utensils

Sterile container - A suitable container that can withstand pressure and be properly sealed to hold the WD-40 mixture.
Sealing mechanism - A secure mechanism, such as a cap or lid, to ensure the container is tightly sealed and airtight.
Shaker - A tool used to vigorously shake the container and mix the ingredients thoroughly.

Origin stories

WD-40 is not a food, but rather a versatile product with a fascinating history. It was developed in 1953 by Norm Larsen, founder of the Rocket Chemical Company, who was attempting to concoct a formula to prevent corrosion—a task accomplished by displacing water. His persistence paid off when he perfected the formula on his 40th try. Hence, the name WD-40 literally stands for 'Water Displacement, 40th formula'. Today, it is used worldwide not only in the industrial sector, but also in households for a myriad of tasks including removing grease, lubricating, and protecting metal from rust and corrosion.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.