Ethylene dichloride (dichloroethane)

[Chris J. Durden]

I have used "stronger ammonia" or "aqua ammonia" for years rather than 
cyanide because it works faster and leaves the muscles relatively limp. The 
only thing to watch out for is high humidity because the ammonia gas 
dissolves in condensation, then the solution dissolves colors, reds, 
orange, green and moves them leaving stains on the wings. I usually use a 
small jar (capers or alka-seltzer size) with a cork stopper excavated 
beneath with a well to take wadded tissue that is periodically dampened 
with the ammonia. This strong ammonia is only available in rural drug 
stores or chemical supply houses. I started using it because I cannot smell 
cyanide and I did not want to use it with children in the house.
..................Chris Durden

At 12:44 PM 9/8/2003 -0400, you wrote:
>Charley, I haven't used ethylene dichloride, but instead use concentrated
>ammonia dropped onto a small tissue pad the same way.  It is excellent for
>microleps and is instantaneous, leaving the wings very relaxed, essential 
>if you are
>going to be spreading the wings for ID purposes.  Ian Watkinson
>
>
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