Identify this gunk in my spirits

[HardKnox]

In my jars of spirits that were cut to 50% ABV with spring water (from a local source that is used for drinking water), there is some sort of 'growth'. I suspect it is minerals. There is none of it in the white dog 90% ABV jars. But there is also none in a jar that is holding pure drinking water. Here is a link to a picture of said 'growth'.

http://i1104.photobucket.com/albums/h33 ... e/Jar2.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow

My question is, have any of you ever seen this? Is it some horrible flesh eating micro organism?


I am lousy at posting pics. I'll try to do a little studying to figure it out soon.

ETA: Pic link worked.

[theholymackerel]

I'm guessing that it is wax or thick oils precipitating outta the lower proof alcohol. At higher proof it probably is miscable.

[Dnderhead]

whats the jar/lid?

[HardKnox]

It is a new, small (16 oz) Mason jar. I'm not sure what the lid contains (don't have one here with me).

If something is leaching out of plastic in the lid, would it not be present in the 90% ABV jar as well?

[rad14701]

90% could quite possibly melt that rubber ring...

[HardKnox]

Here is a pic of the lid. The jars are Ball Mason jars.

http://i1104.photobucket.com/albums/h33 ... ke/Lid.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow

If this is the wrong type of jar/lid, can someone point me toward the specs for the correct type?

[rad14701]

As I stated previously, there is no guarantee that high proof alcohol won't cause the seal to deteriorate and contaminate your spirits... This issue has been discussed several times before... Use them as-is at your own risk...

[EMAB1]

Do's Anyone have a real handle on what kind of jar lid to use, these are the same lids that i am able to procure here localy .I would realy appr. some advice thx Emab1