From:    Steve Litt <slitt@???>

Date:    Mon, 20 Jan 2025 07:05:17 -0500

> Yes and no. I've cured many, many intermittent and hard faults by
> lubricating electronic terminals, so short of doing a double blind
> study, I'm pretty sure lubrication with a non-conductive fluid works.

Yes, I agree. Oxygen diffuses through air faster than through grease
or oil. Hence, grease or oil in metalic contacts slows oxidation.

There are also products such as Locktite Anti-Seize Thread Compound
767 formulated specifically to reduce seizing. Most of the labeling
is worn off the bottle here and the manufacturer might not advertise
composition. I'll hypothsize that powdered zinc in grease would be a
good anti-corrosion compound for metal assemblies. If used on an
electrical connector, be careful to avoid shorting. I've used 767
sparingly on the wall plug of an electric drill or kettle. Likely to
short a USB plug or memory card.

Regarding health hazards, toxicity and volatility are factors.
Gasoline and turpentine are more volatile than sewing machine oil
which is more volatile than Vaseline. If you prefer not using
petroleum drived Vaseline, then lanoline from sheep wool is a good
option. When you smell a fragrance, organic molecules are interacting
with your olfactory receptors. Air-born organics in a rose garden
aren't generally considered a health hazard. If you walk in a forest
in the Spring, fragrances of trees can be detectable but the activity
is considered a benefit.

Use low volatility and low toxicity materials as much as possible. We
don't have to use nothing.

Regards,                           ... P.

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