How To Keep Rubber From Dry Rotting Work [TESTED]

Technically known as ozone cracking or thermo-oxidative degradation , dry rot isn't actually rot (which requires moisture and fungus). It is the chemical breakdown of rubber polymers. When rubber loses its plasticizers and oils, it becomes brittle, shrinks, and cracks.

| Action | Effectiveness | Difficulty | Best for | |--------|--------------|------------|----------| | Store in cool, dark, dry place | ★★★★★ | Easy | All rubber | | Use 303 Aerospace Protectant | ★★★★☆ | Moderate | Tires, seals, trim | | Vacuum seal with oxygen absorber | ★★★★★ | Moderate | Spare parts, gaskets | | Wrap in aluminum foil | ★★★★☆ | Easy | Hoses, belts, small parts | | Apply silicone grease (non-spray) | ★★★☆☆ | Easy | O-rings, plumbing seals | | Avoid all petroleum products | (Preventive) | Easy | All rubber | how to keep rubber from dry rotting work

. Regular maintenance—specifically cleaning and conditioning—is the most effective way to prevent the rubber from becoming brittle and cracking. hunterboots.com.au 1. Routine Cleaning | Action | Effectiveness | Difficulty | Best

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Note: Do not use protectants on tire sidewalls that are more than 5 years old. At that point, the rubber is already degrading; chemicals can accelerate sidewall blowouts. Routine Cleaning (functions

This is the one most people forget. Electric motors produce ozone as a byproduct. If you store your spare tires or rubber hoses next to your , furnace , or air compressor , you are intentionally dry rotting them.