Quote Originally Posted by johnboy View Post
I note that these are all acid (rather than alkaline,) based, implying that the skunk smell itself is alkaline . . . would it be worth a crack to use a stronger acid? Perhaps nitric? Nitric acid doesn't have a detrimental effect on plastic, and should be readily available in a fairly strong mix from any hydroponic store. Just a thought.
jb, I've read a scientific paper from Johns Hopkins where they actually analyzed the chemistry of the four (I think) different skunk varieties, identifying subtle differences in their spray makeup. The spray is a thick, oily mess that is derived from urine and stored in a pair of glands to be sprayed in a concentrated stream up to sixteen feet. They state that the best home remedy is the peroxide/soda/dishwashing detergent for the pet, and also for inanimate objects, but that common household laundry bleach is also effective for things that can take it. I did try a strong bleach solution, soaking the collar for about 1/2 hour, but no joy. The lab report suggested soaking clothes in vinegar, then Dawn, then laundry soap & water followed by a good rinse and leaving them in the sun until dry and odor free. Sunlight is said to be a key, and I can attest that when I thought Bones' web belting collar was "skunk free" putting it in the sun re-activated the aroma quite strong. Perhaps I need to leave both outside in the sun, were it not that today is cloudy.... Someone mentioned that this whole discussion is only of serious interest to me, and I can see that being true so I won't continue to bore you with more info.