Soft latex-rubber (non vulcanized) is very sensitive to free H2
(hydrogen-gas) that is avialble in the atmosphere at very low
concentration (~0.01% by volume)
Remember the partyballoons that loose their festive appearance
after a few days? H2 is the culprit!
By applying talcum or "non corosive" fat/oil the rubber will effectively
be isolated from the H2 in the atmosphere, Oil, however, is not very
handy if you want to use the rubber for pulleys or drivebands. Talcum
can be used if applied sparingly, while maintaining a comfortable level
of friction
I've fixed shriveled-up pulleys from cassette-recorders by submerging
them in arachide-oil for a few hours. Removing the surplus oil (repeatedly)
with a mild detergent or alcohol, and applying a bit talcum for preventive
maintenance. It's important to let the rubber sweat out the oil for a few days
and remove the surplus oil again if needed, before putting the rubber back
to active use (oil sticks to tapes and those will be eaten by the recorder
or the tapedrive).
Sipke de Wal
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http://xgistor.ath.cx
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> > What talcum would do to protect rubberized plastic from
> > deteriorating is a mystery to me. Are we talking about
> > actual latex in any of these situations? I think not.
>
Received on Mon Apr 08 2002 - 13:27:33 BST