Causes of Plastic Oxidation

Chemicals in plastic react with oxygen in the air. The oxidation of plastics leads
to degradation. Plastics become physically abraded or are subject to sunlight, air
pollution, moisture, high temperature and biological exposure. Ultraviolet B
radiation (UVB) breaks down plastics via photo-oxidation. Eventually this leads to
brittle, cracking plastic. While more modern plastics contain stabilizing
additives, older plastics may not, and suffer more risk of degradation. In the case
of ebonite, which contains sulfur compounds, reaction with oxygen occurs and
eventually water as well, ultimately leading to sulfuric acid production. Storing
some plastics, particularly museum pieces, in an oxygen-free area may be warranted.
There are oxygen-absorbing products that seal plastics. Additionally, reducing
exposure of plastic to sunlight can stave off photo-oxidation. In most cases,
however, these steps are impractical, especially for outdoor items. In that
situation, some methods exist to help restore plastic surfaces.

Plastic Restoration Methods

Many oxidized plastics can be restored at home. The surface needing restoration
should be washed gently and rinsed thoroughly before proceeding. For highly
valuable and museum pieces, expert restoration is advised.

Vinyl siding covers the exterior of many homes in the modern world. Because of its
exposure to air, oxidation can occur. It presents as a chalky substance on the
siding. Wet weather makes it more susceptible to this oxidation. However, the
oxidation can be removed. The process involves rinsing the siding in a downward
direction with water to remove excess dirt. A mixture of five cups of vinegar and
one gallon of hot water can be applied via a spray bottle onto the affected area.
Long-handled, soft-bristled cleaning brushes help to remove the oxidation.
Continuing this manner in small sections works best so the solution does not dry
out. Then the material can be hosed downward. For more pernicious oxidation, a
mixture of 1/3 cup of laundry detergent, 2/3 cup of household cleaner, one quart of
household bleach and one gallon of water may be used instead of the vinegar
mixture. Work safely with goggles and an assistant with any ladders.

Car headlights, while made of long-lasting and scratch-resistant polycarbonate, can

also degrade over time. This affects the clarity and appearance of the headlights’
exterior. Fortunately, polishing the surface can restore polycarbonate. The car
must be washed to clean off excess dirt. The area around the headlights should be
masked off with tape to prevent any damage to other surfaces. An abrasive material
such as sandpaper should be used to remove the hazy outer layer of oxidation. Then
a water-soaked 1000-grit sandpaper can be used to sand the lens lightly and
methodically. All pits and scratches should be eliminated, checked, and re-sanded
as needed to achieve smoothness. The headlight should then be dried. Next, sand
again with wet, 1500-grit sandpaper at right angles to the previous sanding. This
should be repeated with wet 2000-, 2500- and 3000-grit sandpaper at alternating
angles. After sanding and cleaning any residue, apply a polishing compound with a
cloth in a circular motion. If there are still defects after polishing, clean the
surface and wax with a paste car wax to protect the polycarbonate from the
elements.

For boat surfaces, cleaning agents approved for fiberglass gelcoats should be used
to wash the surface. To restore surface irregularities, a sealing compound or mild
polish specifically made for boats can be applied. Liquid polish can be applied by
hand with cloth. Polishing paste entails the use of a buffer with a buffing pad.
Much heavier oxidation may require application of a cutting compound. Once the
oxidized area is polished, the surface must be sealed with two coats of polymer
polish. This seals and protects the surface from further wear until the next
season.

Cautionary Note
Oxidation of plastic affects its look and appeal. However, plastic degradation also
leads to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the plastic. This
off-gassing of compounds can lead to eye irritation and other symptoms.
Additionally, dust from polished-off residue can irritate. When handling plastics,
wear protective eyewear and gloves, and wash hands to prevent skin exposure.