Clean off silicone residue

[PDRed302]

Not quite sure if this is the correct forum for this question but here goes:

I am in the cleaning before fill stage of my current project and came across a small problem. The tank has cleaned up very well except for an area that used to be covered in black silicone. This was not the only area of the tank that the silicone was on (old silicone was holding 3D background and other 3D objects in place) but it is the only area that will not seem to clean up.

I am using a 6 to 1 water to white vinegar solution, along with a few razor blades and some elbow grease to clean this tank up; but this one area just seems impossible to clean!

Anyone have any tips? I am open to suggestions.

Here is a shot of the culprit:

 

[skjl47]

Hello; After the razor blade I have had some areas of old silicone film left on glass. Sometimes a dry wash cloth rubbed on the residue will remove this film. Some caution as I suspect it is very possible to scratch acrylic with a dry cloth and perhaps remotely so even glass with some cloths. Smooth cloth does not seem to work as well as that with more texture. I have had some luck with just rubbing silicone film with my fingers.

 

[PDRed302]

Thanks for the reply skj, I guess I'll give it another go. I debated using muratic acid to see if that would clean it up a bit.

Any other ideas anyone?

BTW, the tank is glass.

 

[Squirtle919]

ahh!! I hate this too, about 6 of my 4x2x2s had this on them after we cut the dividers out, I found a bit of mentholated spirits and a ruff cloth like the shower towels, then I rubbed a little bit for a long time and had to use a brand new razor, it would come off slowly but the time taken was ages, I left one and you cant really see it when theres water in the tank.

Another way I believe is to go to the hardware shop and buy silicone strip remover its a chemical that will get it right off and fast, the only down side is if you drop any of the seams of your tank that too will go which is why I did not use it myself you should be safe if your not crazy like me !

 

[PDRed302]

So far I've tried:

Water and vinegar solution, razors, cloths (including micro fiber), straight vinegar, lemon juice, 0000 steal wool, and the finger and hand rub.

I haven't yet even made a dent on this spot. I am going to give denatured alcohol a shot this after noon along with some nail polish remover. I really didn't want to use harsh chemicals but I'm going to have to give it a go.

If that doesn't work, I'm going to call it quits and do a clean up of the area and fill. I need to get some water in this thing tonight, so I guess I'll try and hide it with a plant or some other deco if I can't get it clean.

Any other solutions?