Allow items to air-dry completely before putting them into storage, as trapped moisture can promote fungal growth on certain rubber blends. 3. Apply Specialized Protectants
By protecting rubber from UV light, high temperatures, and using proper conditioners, you can significantly slow the oxidation process and keep your rubber items lasting for years.
Store rubber items away from direct sunlight. Use opaque storage bins, heavy curtains, or window tints to block UV rays in warehouses. how to keep rubber from dry rotting work
Before we can talk about prevention, it helps to know exactly what we're up against. Despite its name, rubber "dry rot" isn't typically caused by a fungus (which is what rots wood). Instead, it's the breakdown of the rubber's polymer chains due to environmental attack—a process more accurately described as oxidation, UV degradation, or ozone cracking.
Wet suits, industrial belts, vibration mounts, and cable jackets. Allow items to air-dry completely before putting them
Allow rubber to air-dry completely in the shade before storing it away. 3. Apply Professional Rubber Conditioners
Where you store your gear is just as important as how you treat it. Extreme temperature swings cause rubber to expand and contract rapidly, leading to micro-fractures. Store rubber-based gear in a cool, dry place. Store rubber items away from direct sunlight
Tiny, spiderweb-like cracks appearing in high-stress areas (such as bends or sidewalls).
Sunlight breaks the chemical bonds in rubber polymers.
Catching dry rot early allows you to treat the rubber before total failure occurs. Inspect your gear weekly for these warning signs:
Use a mild soap and water solution (such as dish soap and water) to wash rubber surfaces 1.2.4 .