How to Renovate Aged Plastic?
3 Answers
Here are the methods to renovate aged plastic: 1. If the plastic has aged: If the surface has turned yellow, there is still a chance to salvage it. You can use some organic solvents to remove the yellowing, or acidic solvents such as white vinegar or citric acid. 2. Yellowing remover: Plastic renovation agents can effectively remove yellow spots caused by aging on the plastic surface, restoring the oxidized and yellowed plastic surface to its original bright color. The cleaning agent does not contain any harmful inorganic acids or alkalis, and is non-toxic, harmless, and pollution-free. You can use a plastic renovation agent—as the name suggests, it makes plastic look new again. This type of plastic renovation agent is mainly used on older, whitened black plastic.
I've done plastic aging restoration several times myself, mainly for the dashboard and door panels that turned gray and became brittle in the car. First, thoroughly clean the surface with warm water and a small amount of dish soap to remove dust and grease; then gently sand the aged areas with fine sandpaper, being careful to avoid scratching the plastic. After drying, apply a dedicated plastic restorer or spray repair spray, spreading a thin, even layer and waiting several hours for it to absorb. In terms of results, it can restore the black glossy shine and some flexibility, but severe cracks may only be alleviated and not completely repaired. The main cause of plastic aging is long-term exposure to UV rays from sunlight, and temperature changes also accelerate deterioration, so it's best to park in the shade when possible and regularly clean with UV-protective agents to effectively delay the aging process. If all else fails, replacing the parts is an option, but restoration is much more cost-effective.
When dealing with plastic aging and refurbishment, my personal habit is to clean the surface first and then directly apply a plastic restorer. In similar tasks, the common method is to wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth, ensuring no stains remain before spraying the refurbishment spray. After spraying, evenly spread the liquid to allow it to penetrate the plastic pores, restoring color and softness. For minor aging, a heat gun can be used to assist in softening the plastic, but avoid excessive temperatures to prevent deformation. The refurbishment process can significantly improve appearance, but always test a small area first to ensure safety. Plastic aging is often caused by long-term use and environmental factors, and timely refurbishment can extend its lifespan, saving both money and hassle. As for preventive measures, avoid exposing plastic surfaces to chemicals like perfumes or alcohol, as these can accelerate deterioration. It's recommended to inspect plastic conditions every six months.
