Casein formaldehyde

Spectroscopy chart CF

A pair of knitting needles, 1940s

CF

Source

MoDiP.

History

Apparently unused with original paper binding still in place.

Material

The needles are made of the featured material, casein formaldehyde. The end pieces are of urea formaldehyde.

Degradation

Warped.

 

Degradation typical of the material not visible in this example

Can crack if kept in too dry conditions.

Treatments

Casein is a relatively stable plastic but requires higher humidity storage than other materials as water acts as a plasticiser. Storage of these needles in a humid environment might help them straighten out. Unlike with other plastics it would not do any damage.

Display and storage

No special requirements except ideally to be kept in higher humidity than other plastics (e.g. 55-65% RH). Make sure it is not very dry (e.g. under 40% RH).

Cellulose acetate 1 >