If you’re using a razor blade, put down a cutting board or other thick surface so that the razor blade doesn’t damage your table. If you aren’t able to cut up the plastic, you can use a different method that won’t cause damage.
You don’t need to fill the container all the way up with water — the plastic just needs enough room to either float or sink to the bottom.
It floats because glycerin is denser than ABS plastic.
A long neck lighter would be the best and safest option since the flame won’t be near your fingers. You don’t need to cut the plastic into smaller sections when holding it in the flame.
Don’t inhale too much of the fumes when smelling the plastic, as some plastics can be toxic when melted. ABS plastic has also been said to smell rubbery.
Sometimes ABS will be labeled as “Other. " If you see abbreviations such as PETE, PVC, HDPE, or PP, these are other types of plastics, meaning it isn’t ABS.
If it bends, you may see a white line form in the crease.
ABS plastic is also known for its shock absorbency.
If you leave ABS plastic in acetone, it will eventually disintegrate, almost as if it’s melting.
