"Ian White, G3SEK" wrote in message
...

2. Solder paste doesn't keep (seems to have about the same time constant
as Horowitz & Hill's wet fish)

2. How can we either store it so it stays fresh; or re-constitute it
after it's gorn orf?

Solder paste must be kept refrigerated to maximize its shelf life. (read the
manufacturer's storage and handling instructions CAREFULLY, both for proper
storage for product longevity and for safety reasons)

Note: If you don't have a dedicated refrigerator and *must* use one you
keep food in, you *must* take the *utmost* of care to do (at least) the
following
before even *considering* putting solder paste in your (regular, food
storage) refrigerator (and you should probably do this even if you have a
dedicated refrigerator):

1) clean the tube VERY well after use to make sure no paste is on the
outside
2) place the tube in a plastic "zip-lock" bag (which must not be
contaminated with solder paste)
3) place the bag, with the tube inside into a plastic container with a
tightly sealing lid (again, this must be clean and not contaminated with
solder paste)

Doing this *very carefully and meticulously* will at least minimize the
possibility of contaminating your refrigerator with solder paste particles,
which are VERY small ...

Further notes: You should, at after each step above, THOROUGHLY wash your
hands to assure that you don't transfer any solder paste to the outside of
the bag or the plastic container. Use a fresh, brand new bag each time
(they are cheap). Also wash the plastic container THOROUGHLY inside and out
each time you prepare to re-store your solder paste (don't wash it in your
dishwasher - do it manually and clean up afterwards as if you were cleaning
up a hazmat spill). And finally, NEVER use the plastic container for food
after you've stored solder paste in it, NOT MATTER HOW WELL YOU THINK YOU'VE
CLEANED IT.

Ultimate note: If you have children in the home who could get into the
refrigerator and get at the solder paste, you probably shouldn't even
consider putting solder paste in your refrigerator where the children could
get at it ...

DISCLAIMER: While I believe the precautions above to be adequate and use
them myself, I take no responsibility for any consequences of a proper lack
of care on anyone's part in doing what I describe above, or any inadequacy
in my suggestions. Anyone following these suggestions does so solely at
their own risk.

73,
Carl - wk3c

p.s. Additionally, anyone considering the "ez-bake" method of reflow
soldering needs to understand the ABSOLUTE necessity of having a dedicated
toaster oven that is NEVER used for food preparation. It, along with all
soldering supplies should be used and stored in an area that is inaccessable
to children (keeping in mind how inquisitive children are and their ability
to get into things that you *thought* were secure or inaccessable).