Thread: Celluloid breaking down?

In Lynn's thread about ebay razors, someone mentioned celluloid rot affecting other razors nearby. I have a Case Temperite with clear yellowish celluloid handles seemingly in great shape. The handle material gives off a strong vinegar odor however. What does this mean and what, if anything should I do about it?

hi - from phillip m. krumholz' book:

"You will see the danger signals as a light red powdery rust that is forming on the blade. At this area, look for cracking or spider web look to the celluloid. if you see this cracking it means the camphor is breaking down in the celluloid releasing an acidic gas. this gas immediately goes to work on the steel. Take this razor away from your other razors. you may slow down this deterioration by keeping the affected razor in a cool dark place. you might consider spraying the metal parts with a clear spray after thoroughly de-greasing the piece."

it mentions nothing about an odour though. hope this is of some help

Stop Breakin' Down.

I may be mistaken here and 'm no expert but my understanding is that there are two types of celluloid, the more recent is a celluloid acetate and the older is some other kind of stuff which dates back to the 1800s though it has been used more recently.

The newer stuff is much more stable and will last indefinately though it is very fragile stuff and will deteriorate in the presence of strong direct sunlight and any chemicals. Even strong soap and very hot water will cause problems but if cared for it shouldn't be a problem. I think that most of the razors most of us have are of this type. I know I have several and they do give off a chemical smell but I haven't had a problems with mine.

If you have the older type you need to keep it in a cool dry and dark environment and check them very often. In this case one bad apple will spoil the bunch and once it starts to go there ain't much you can do to stop it.

It has a little warping of the scales, but other than that and the smell it seems to be fine. I'll separate it anyway and keep an eye on it just in case.