Lesson learned

[BDM]

Nothing to do with the laser module, but I've been watching YouTube videos about applying a borax solution to light colored woods to make the laser engravings darker and clearer. Applied the solution to some basswood rounds and within five minutes I could hear the wood groaning and then splitting Haven't had a chance to actually laser engrave the wood, but this wasn't what I had in mind when applying the solution. Looks like a good technique for plywood and other sheet products, but need to exercise caution with other types of wood. I doubt if it is the borax itself doing it, but rather the application of water to dried wood.

BDM

[TReischl]

It is because the solution is being applied to end grain in a solid piece. The fibers act like straws and suck up the solution.

And not just water. Made some small round boxes on the lathe a few hears ago. Put a sealer coat of very thing shellac and alcohol on, the lid blew up like a balloon. When it dried it shrank back down.