303 Aerospace

[TeryT]

I've done a fair ammount of research on this, because I am very interested in protecting my RV & other things stored in the hot Arizona sun. RVers & boaters are real high on this product, and buy it by the gallon containers (Camping World sells it this way). It actually started out in the aerospace & airline industies, and I've heard airline people say they use it extensively & exclusively.

From what others are telling me, it is hands-down the best thing for protecting any vinyl, fiberglass or rubber. I'm now using it on all those things I can. Much, much superior to Armor All - & is just in a different class altogether.

 

[Koz]

I agree, but don't know exactly why.

Can someone give me a good explanation of why petroleum based products are so bad? I'd love to be able to explain this to someone else...

Tire manufacturers mix polymers and waxes into rubber to inhibit ultra violet and ozone damage. Without these components they will degrade and or dry rot. Carbon Black is the ingredient that makes the tire black. It does its work by absorbing and capturing harmful UV's and converting them into heat so they may be dissipated or thrown off harmlessly. All UV stabilizers get used up. Eventually they can no longer protect the tire from UV damage and the tire begins to change color. Using petroleum based protectants (simple blends of either kerosene or mineral spirits, combined with the silicone oils) strip away the protective waxes/polymers from rubber.

Vehicle manufacturers and component suppliers work very hard to provide vinyl components that will withstand the punishment of high heat, ultra violet rays, and ozone. Waterborne polymer type dressings are recommended for use on interior and exterior vinyl parts for the same reasons as dealing with tires. The only difference with vinyl is that we must protect the plasticizers in the vinyl. In simple terms- Remove the plasticizers-and you remove the color and flexibility of the vinyl. You have seen seats, instrument panels, etc. that have a dull or chalky look. You will find petroleum distillates were applied to these vinyl components.

Koz