Re: methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)
MEK is not banned in California. That is misinformation often spread by employees at places like Home Depot and Ace hardware because they no longer sell MEK. Their main supplier Kleen Strip is stocking them with an MEK substitute that is adequate for thinning, but is not a replacement for prepping the surface of PVC. There are many professional paint or fiberglass supply stores that still stock it. Here in San Diego I purchased my MEK at Fiberlay. It can also be ordered from Tap Plastics. It ships as hazardous material, but is not excluded or prohibited. This lack of availability is directly related to a push to reduce the improper use of MEK as a basic household cleaner. Few shoppers at home improvement centers have any real need to be using MEK. Air Quality Control Districts are working hard to reduce the emissions from improperly used solvents and retailers are trying to reduce their liability for homeowners who fail to wear gloves and work in properly ventilated spaces.
Acetone does work, but the resulting bond is not as strong. You won't get the PVC to soften as much and be as receptive to the two part PVC glue. MEK does a much better job of softening the surface and does not flash off so fast. I would consider acetone for non critical uses like prepping for accesories, but I would not use it to replace MEK for bonds like transom or floor repairs.
