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Ebonite vs. Bakelite
I've always referred to both of these materials(and others I'm sure) as Bakelite. I know that often times I use the name incorrectly, but it's easier then saying black scales that stink when you rub them. I have some pre 1890's blades that I can safely assume are not Bakelite since it was not invented until the 20th century. I have noticed that most will turn brown when oxidized, but some turn kind of green. Ive also seen early advertisements that referred to scale material being "rubber", which I believe is a reference to Ebonite. And as far as I can figure, Vulcanite was a generic name for Ebonite. The more I look into this, the more it seems Ebonite was the more common material used for razor scales.
Can anyone tell me how to tell these materials apart?
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The only way I know is when cleaning them.
The Ebonite smells like a ol tire.
Bakelite reminds me of an old stale beef bouillon cube.
Weird.. eh!
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Yeah I noticed that "ol tire smell" and wondered. So that's what it is... Ebonite. :idea:
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OK here’s the quick and dirty. I don’t know the exact formula but could find out, no don't want to. Ebonite or Vulcanite used carbon black (talk about dirty) as the primary filler (like tires) and has a higher sulfur content, hence the smell. A little bit of SBR rubber (like tires), some carbon black & test oil to start whompin up a batch.
Bakelite I think had a higher phenol (smell) resin content, hence the term “plastic” is used. Pigments could be added for coloration. Of course there are additives like Zinc oxide, Aluminum oxide & Sulfur to help cross link the resins and stearic acids or waxes. This would aid in the press molding and curing processes of both compounds.
Mike
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Neil Miller spoke of scales made from compressed, molded horn powder and other powdered materials with a binder used.
I have some I suspect are of it, yet the eye to tell the difference, I do not have.
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I believe the OP is correct in that ebonite and vulcanite are one and the same. The old Leica cameras had a vulcanite body covering that can deteriorate and get a brownish tinge. It has that old tire Sulphur smell.
IIRC glycerin rubbed in or a tire restore product would help keep it going.
Bakelite is something else again and probably one of the first modern plastics.
Bob
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in a catalogue from the 50s, heljestrand (as an example) advertises its black scales made from "rubber" (=ebonite, vulkanit). when exposed to UV/sun light, ebonite oxidises quickly, changes its colour to brown-green and releases sulphur which can form sulphuric acid. you don't want any acid near your beloved razor blade! don't ask me how i know... :(
regards,
hans
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Thanks for the responses guys. Still not sure I can differentiate the smells but I'll keep trying.