Retr0bright

Retr0bright is a public domain^[1] chemical mixture used to remove yellowing from ABS plastic computer and electronics cases, including computers that were manufactured by Commodore, Apple and Amiga in the 1980s and 1990s, and various video game consoles and cartridges.^[1] Yellowing is caused by both bromine and exposure to UV light. Bromine is added to ABS plastic, acting as a fire retardant.

Retr0bright is hydrogen peroxide, a small amount of an ‘active oxygen' laundry booster TAED as a catalyst and a UV lamp. Sunlight can be used instead of UV lamp.^[2]

The optimum mixture and conditions for reversing yellowing of plastics:

1. Hydrogen peroxide solution, the stronger the better. 12% works fine, 6% works also, just slower.
2. UV light, either from sunlight or a UV lamp.
3. Approximately 1/4 teaspoonful (4.9 ml) per gallon (3.8 Litre) (1/3072) of "Oxy" laundry booster.

Xanthan Gum or Arrow Root can be added to mixture, creating an easier to apply gel.^[3]

When making and applying the mixture, one should take proper safety precautions and wear protective gloves and goggles. Hydrogen peroxide can cause serious chemical burns and blindness if splashed in the eyes.

References

1. ^ ^{a b} retr0bright.wikispaces.com - The “Retr0bright” Project
2. ^ amibay.com/viewtopic.php?f=88&t=1645&hilit=retr0bright
3. ^ retr0bright.wikispaces.com - Making the Retr0bright Gel

External links

• Retr0Bright Restores Yellowed Vintage Plastic to Factory Fresh (Plastics in the News)
• Un-Yellow Old Plastics - Retr0brite! (Make blog)
• Open source computer polish: Retr0Brite (Boing Boing)
• amibay.com - Retr0bright Support Thread