Sticky inflatable

[TiggerToo]

TT's "Waveline" PVC tender has started to go sticky... I suspect that this is the effect of UV induced decomposition of the material (ca 7 years old). Does anyone have any suggestions as how one could go about restoring the surface, or at least preventing further degradation? How can you remove the stickyness?

 

[landlockedpirate]

You cant remove the sticky stuff completely but a gentle wipe over with acetone will remove the worst of it. Make sure you wash immediately with lots of water or the acetone will dissolve your boat.

The best way to avoid the problem is keep it covered when not in use and regular application of inflatable boat sun cream. The best stuff is 3M Vinyl & Hypalon UV Protect, but its expensive and getting difficult to find. Rib Shop and Rib Store both do there own versions of conditioner.

 

[GrahamHR]

The stickiness is caused by plasticiser migration ( PVC without a plasticiser is quite rigid). The rate of migration is directly proportional to temperature (so affected by exposure to sunlight, as well as ambient temperature). Talcum powder stops the sticky layer picking up dirt.

 

[TobyJug]

I would have agreed with the previous advice until a friend in the marina tried Inflatable boat cleaner by Polymarine , the result was dramatic and removed the stickyness with ease. So impressed I bought a bottle too, and it does work, it cleaned up the plastimo dorade vents a treat . see link http://www.polymarine.com/advice/inflatable-boat-cleaning-finishing-guide/
Philip

 

[GrahamM376]

The Polymarine dinghy cleaner works very well as a cleaner but I found it won't do much for some very sticky surfaces, particularly around the rubbing strake. Acetone works well but will remove even more plasticiser and it won't be long before it's sticky again unless covered up or painted with PVC paint which is the best long term solution.