How well does ABS Armor or Helmets Age?

[jchristman]

I'm thinking of buying an ABS Stormtrooper Helmet for display purposes, and am wondering how these tend to hold up over time. Is yellowing a big problem with ABS? I did a search, and found some people who had yellowing issues with aging armor, and I suppose it is unavoidable with all types plastics.

I can always paint the helmet a few years down the road if it yellows too badly, but I'm wondering people's experience with having these helmets on display for a few years.

Jason

 

[Smitty]

I have a HIPS helmet that is painted. The paint is over 2 years old and it sits atop some ABS armor thats pushing 8 yrs old. The painted helmet has yellowed quite noticeably whereas the ABS armor is still pristine white. Hope that helps.

 

[Superkrates]

I have been an armorer for nine years and have plastic parts that look as good as the new pieces coming off the molds. ABS plastic will deteriorate (yellow) with exposure to UV light (ie: sunlight, blacklight and fluorescent tube light) unless it has been coated with a UV inhibitor (acrylic film or clear-coat automotive paint) or the plastic resin was manufactured with a UV inhibitor when processed into sheet form (not common). With limited exposure to sunlight and not on display 24/7 under fluorescent lights, expect a Stormtrooper to remain pristine for 15-20 years. Structural integrity is indefinite due to the elastisomer within ABS.

 

[jchristman]

Thanks guys, very helpful information.

 

[jackdoud]

I've had a set of FX TK armor for 8 years, still fine.