Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)

Source

Plastics Historical Society.

History

Before entering the Plastics Historical Society's collection, the object is likely to have been in daily use.

Material

The casing and buttons are made of the featured material, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The cords are made of polyvinyl chloride.

Degradation

The casing is extremely discoloured. ABS is a stable material but it absorbs light and is prone to chemical changes that darken the colour while leaving the high gloss unaffected.

Degradation typical of the material not visible in this example

None.

Treatments

The damage cannot be reversed.

Display and storage

Follow standard practice: keep in a stable environment and, when not on display, in the dark.

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