Rubber preservation - Kradmantel

[320]

Hello,

Question to Kradmantel owners.

I am very happy to own a nice Kradmantel bought on the e-stand, though I am a bit worried about it.

The mantel is very rigid, with rubber getting dryer and dryer, and "crumbling away" in some places, especially where fold.

What are your tricks to preserve your Kradmantel ?

I was wondering if I would not use the cleaning products we have for car rubber parts detailing, for example from Meguiar :

http://www.meguiars.co.uk/product/37...er-Protectant/

... but I am a bit afraid to get an adverse effect...

Any advice, experience feedback with Kradmantel preservation would be highly appreciated.

Thanks a lot in advance for your help.

Cheers,
320

[armorrich]

Brake Fluid...

I've used plain silicone brake fluid in the past. If its safe enough for the seals in your cars brake system........i used it on a US black rubber assault gas mask bag. It made it look like new and stay flexible while packed away for a number of years. I would also keep your mantel on a hanger and avoid folding it as well as hang it in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. You may need to apply a few coats if its really dry as it will soak into the rubber. Try it on a small, unseen area or another piece of something rubber first to see if it gives you the results you're looking for. I hope it works for you.....best, rich

[320]

Hi Rich,
thanks a lot for your answer. I indeed understand from reading various threads that silicone - based products are a good option.

As you say, I will try on a small hidden part.

Cheers,

320

[Paul R.]

I've used plain silicone brake fluid in the past. If its safe enough for the seals in your cars brake system........i used it on a US black rubber assault gas mask bag. It made it look like new and stay flexible while packed away for a number of years. I would also keep your mantel on a hanger and avoid folding it as well as hang it in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. You may need to apply a few coats if its really dry as it will soak into the rubber. Try it on a small, unseen area or another piece of something rubber first to see if it gives you the results you're looking for. I hope it works for you.....best, rich

First of all I would do a WAF site search on this topic. There has been a lot written about this topic.

If it is not too late. I would not recommend using any silicon brake fluid product on any rubber gas mask or any other rubber product period. This is only a short peroid tempory fix to the problem.

Silicon is known to break down rubber in time. The rubber of the 1940's is different that that of todays. I'm sorry to say that there is NO MAGIC CURE FOR OLD DRIED OUT RUBBER.

It's best to keep the moisture 43% - 45% 27/7 - 365 days a year. I'd keep it stored out of the canister and out of all types of light.

[armorrich]

Hi Paul... you're totally correct in your statement that there's no real cure for totally dried out rubber.....should have mentioned that. However, that said...my cars brakes haven't failed yet.....i'll keep an eye on those rubber hoses and seals.......best, rich

[320]

Hi,

I indeed made a search before. I was just hoping someone would have found the ultimate solution in the meantime.

Thanks to you both for your answers !

320

[Paul R.]

I have been in the field of conservation for years. Conservation research on the preservation of old rubber products has produced nothing that can stop old rubber decay. The rubber products of the 40’s 50’s 60’s and 70’s are not the rubber of today. Products like silicon, brake fluids, tire cleaners can actually speed up detraction. There is no magic formula that can be used to stop or correct the problem. If there was such a silver bullet cure for decaying rubber. I would share it with you and the rest of the world.

Of course these are your items to do with as you see fit.

[armorrich]

Hi 320....just curious how you're making out with the mantel and if you've tried anything on it. Keep us posted with your thoughts and progress.....best, rich

[CWP]

I would like to have a rubberized Kradmantel on display with my combat uniforms but they are nightmares to deal with from a conservation standpoint. I hate spending money on something that will just deteriorate over time. I stay away from these and also items made of or lined with fur, just too much hassle.

[Johnny R]

I worked in museums for several years and all that can really be done is to try and keep the materials at a consistent temperature and dry etc. When older rubber starts to decay that is all you can really do. Paul R. noted there is really no answer. Things that are not in bad shape can be stabilized and preserved longer by keeping them in stable environments. The hardest thing on rubber items are drastic changes in conditions like those in an older attic or other storage where it freezes and also gets very hot over the year