Back when it was legal, we'd soak the assemblies in toluene to soften it up, then pick it out as you are doing.

Of course, if you have solvent sensitive components on the board, you need to be careful.

I know of nothing to dissolve it easily.

Cotton swabs with sharpened wooden handles and tooth picks work best to not damage components on the board.

The cotton swabs and tooth picks might be better then using tweezers and metal pick.

Thanks for the information.

Ralph

this stuff may work, or it might trash certain components depending on what they are.... http://www.liftoffinc.com/product-sealant-remover.php

Something to try. At least it is ECO-Friendly.

Thank You,

Ralph

I recently used it to get silicone caulk off a tub, had to scrape a bit but it did come off much easier than normal. (and no, I have no interest in busting up the tub! =b (inside joke))

Had a job that required removal of UV cured potting material. Tokk us a long time to finally get it into a "process" rather than digging away with a knife. (Components 0.25mm leads at close spacing (SOT666))

Totally immersed the units in "metylated spirits" for 72 hours then picked off the larger pieces, then brushed with toothbrush to remove the little bits.

Your coating might not respond to this.

Generally the coating absorbs some of the solvent, swells up and becomes like gelatine. This could be a problem if it's underneath components.

May experiment with it.

Thank You,

Ralph

Can I assume there are through hole boards with leaded components?

Did a bazillion with Sylgard 182 in the late 1970's. Missiles and satellites.

Any Brazilian with silicone you did in the late 70's has likely forgotten about you.

bazillion, not Brazillian.

Yes, they are through hole with leaded components. Toluene is a hazardous material.

Sylgard 182 is similar to Sylgard 184. A bazillion...That is quite a lot!

Thanks,

Ralph

Try cooling it to a point where it would lift off.

Will try that idea.

Thanks,

Ralph

I wouldn't waste my time with this. One of silicone's desirable qualities is the ability to retain its properties in extreme heat and cold.

agreed, you could dip it in LN2 and it would stay flexible. you might however shatter the PCB instead.

I don't think that I would want to shatter the PCB.

Thanks,

Ralph