Thread: 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?

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!

Yeah I noticed that "ol tire smell" and wondered. So that's what it is... Ebonite.

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

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.

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

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

Thanks for the responses guys. Still not sure I can differentiate the smells but I'll keep trying.