re coloring plastic

[Cr250r]

Hi there

First let me introduce myself
I am involved with a particular make of Motorcycle. The plastic of which tends to fade conciderable. The thing is over the years of racing , etc I have a large assortment of plastic radiator shrouds, race plates side panels etc. A lot of in unscratched but faded condition.

My question is is there anyway of recoloring this plastic. It seems a shame to throw it out just because its discolored.

any Ideas ??

thanks in advance


Stephen Watson

477 Racing

 

[patprimmer]

Have you tried polishing it.

Have you tried Armorall ? spelling.

Regards

eng-tips, by professional engineers for professional engineers
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[bvanhiel]

Paint is probably your only solution. The pigment is fused into the plastic and has broken down due to UV, there is not easy rejuvenation. Since the plastic is probably polypropylene, paint adhesion and flexibility will be a challenge. I believe it's being don in the automotice aftermarket, but I don't have and first hand experience. Maybe someone here has some recommendation.

-b

 

[patprimmer]

Many plastics, especially polypropylene degrade in the presence of UV light.

This causes micro cracks at the surface, which appears as a powdered surface, which makes colour appear faded, or more faded than it is.

Removing this powdered layer, or filling the micro cracks with a clear substance restores colour.

Pigments in the plastic fade on exposure to light. Whether or not it is specifically UV light depends on the individual pigments used.

Regards

eng-tips, by professional engineers for professional engineers
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[Cr250r]

Thanks all

Yes thats what has happened , I can scrape a white powdery substance off, underneath the plastic sometimes is almost white ...
the trouble is they are scratch free, a waste really

Kind regards for all your help
Stephen