Zinc on glass?

[DPete1104]

is there any toxicity problem with using a copper/zinc alloy on hot glass?

Just thought I'd better ask before I gave it a try...

[2xMI]

This site should give you some answers. My understanding is that zinc fumes can be fairly toxic and you would need industrial-strength venting equipment if you wanted to try it. It's not something I would attempt.

http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts60.html

Mimi

[RSimmons]

Zinc fumes are toxic, as are most metal fumes, so very good ventilation is a requirement. You'll find that there is already a lot of zinc in soft glass anyway, along with lead and other fun heavy metals.

Robert

[FosterFire]

I have a friend who is an artist-blacksmith. Galvanized pipes contain ZINC. My friend said a friend of his DIED heating galvanized pipes in his propane fired forge with insfficient ventilation. Think of a modern "forge" as a torch flame in an enclosed space, similar to a glory hole. It's different when it's already in the glass matrix. Ask Henry Grimmett of Glass Alchemy - you should see the spacesuit and HUGE fans and all they have just to keep people safe.

[DPete1104]

I have some "dutch metal" gilding sheets, 15% zinc, 85% copper and was thinking about trying them on a bead or two which is why I asked...

[Bright-eyed Beads]

They go black so you don't get any sparkle!!!