In a message dated 4/7/04 10:14:39 PM Eastern Daylight Time, [log in to unmask] writes:
Why does spit shining work?  Somehow this seems like a question Steve Stokowski could answer.
Thank you.
 
Shoe polish is wax.  Wax melts when hot. Spit on a cloth causes it to have more friction.  Friction causes heat.  Friction causes wax, i.e., polish, to melt and develop a smooth surface.
 
Now, if I could just get paid.
 
Steve Stokowski
Stone Products Consultants
Building Products Microscopy
10 Clark St., Ste. A
Ashland, Mass. 01721-2145
508-881-6364 (ph. & fax)
http://members.aol.com/crushstone/petro.htm