Collodion

Collodion is a solution of nitrocellulose in ether or acetone, sometimes with the addition of alcohols. Its generic name is pyroxylin solution. It is toxic and highly flammable.

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As the solvent evaporates, it dries to a celluloid-like film. It was used as a wound dressing, as an emulsion in some early photographic plates (the collodion process), and various other topical medications. One example, Compound W Wart Remover, still exists, consisting of acetic acid and salicylic acid in an acetone collodion base.

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It was also added to nitroglycerine to stabilise it as blasting gelatine.

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Collodion is also used in theatrical makeup for various effects, such as simulating old-age wrinkles or scars.

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Nitrocellulose: Nitrocellulose (Cellulose nitrate, guncotton) is a highly flammable compound formed by nitrating cellulose (e.g. through exposure to nitric acid or powerful nitrating agent). This compound, as an explosive, was known as guncotton....

Ether: : This article is about ether as a general class of chemical compounds. For other meanings, see Ether (disambiguation)...

Alcohol: In general usage, alcohol (from Arabic al-khwl الكحول, or al-ghawl الغول) refers almost always to ethanol, also known as grain alcohol, and often to any beverage that contains ethanol (see alcoholic beverage). This sense underlies the...