Duster
Contents |
[edit] Duster
Gas duster, also known as canned air, is a product used to clean electronic equipment and other sensitive devices. The gases inside the can have been compressed to the point that they have become liquid, and evaporate before leaving the can since the valve draws from the top (unlike most aerosol cans which have a straw that draws from the bottom of the can). Despite the name "canned air," the cans actually contain gases that are much easier to compress into liquids, such as difluoroethane, trifluoroethane, or tetrafluoroethane. The main components of air, oxygen and nitrogen, are rarely used. Bittering agents are commonly added to gas duster to discourage against abuse.
[edit] Recreational use
Duster is stereotypically used by teenagers, as it is legal and readily available at many stores worldwide. In truth, people from all walks of life enjoy inhalants and the high that comes with them. Although not entirely safe by any means, duster is considered to be less harmful to the body than solvents, glues, or spray paint.
[edit] Effects
- slurred speech
- lack of coordination
- euphoria
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- "the wah-wahs"
- headache
- confusion
The onset of effects occurs almost instantly and can last up to two minutes.
[edit] Health risks
Compressed gasses leaving the can rapidly expand and cool, thus posing the risk of freezing one's throat and/or lungs. Furthermore, the inhalation of any gas that is capable of displacing oxygen in the lungs carries the risk of hypoxia (Oxygen deprivation), which can be fatal. There are no outward signs of suffocation even when the brain is undergoing hypoxia. By the time the full symptoms of hypoxia appear, it may be too late to breathe without assistance. However, damage to the brain cells may only happen after 4 minutes of oxygen deprivation.
[edit] Suggested method
- Take balloon
- Insert paper towel
- Partially fill balloon with duster
- Wait a few seconds
- Inhale contents of balloon
By filling the balloon first as opposed to taking your hit directly from the can, the compressed gasses have plenty of time to expand and warm up to room temperature, greatly reducing the chance of damaging the respiratory system. Also, by using a balloon, the size of a hit can easily be judged. A half sheet of paper towel or napkin rolled up and inserted into the balloon will absorb most if not all of the bitterant, eliminating any bad taste.
All inhalants are dangerous and should be used with caution.
People die from inhalant use, most commonly when they are ignorant about the risks.
ALWAYS hold your can upright.
ALWAYS have a buddy in case of an emergency.
NEVER fill your lungs completely with duster, ALWAYS get some O2 with your hit.
Remember, there is no "safe" way to do duster.
Be careful kiddies.
