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PVC: Handling coins in Mylars
Early_Milled_Latin_America
Posts: 6,423 ✭✭✭✭✭
Was working on my air system today and had to install a new PVC drainage flexible PVC pipe. I just simply washed my hands with soap and water after (twice) then I handled a few coins in Mylar cardboard sleeves.
Is just washing hands after good enough? It had no stickiness to it at all (PVC). If the PVC was sticky or anything like that I would have not handled any coins till my hands were OK.
I imagine the PVC must have direct contact with the coin for there to be an issue? The Mylar window would prevent any problems correct?
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Does PVC residue last a long time on dry surfaces or just dries up and then if touched will not cause any issues for handling raw coins?
PVC is harmless. It's PVC that's breaking down that creates acid. Acid is water soluble.
If one did not wash his hands would that acid affect the Mylar in any way? Or would the Mylar protect the coin from the acid?
Thanks
There's no evidence that there was any acid in the first place. Mylar is inert
Was just curious is all figured I would ask.
AI response:
Yes, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) acid, or more accurately, the hydrochloric acid that PVC can release as it degrades, can negatively affect Mylar. PVC is known to release hydrochloric acid as it breaks down, and this acid can corrode or degrade other materials, including Mylar.
FWIW, I always understood it to be the softeners in PVC that were the problem. PVC pipe is very different than soft PVC holders.
I've never seen degrading/disintegrating PVC pipe, but of course it might occur and I'm just not aware of it.
In any case, I'm more concerned about whether or not you cleared the cardboard dust off the inside of the Mylar holders, and whether or not you flattened the staples. 🧐
Not a pipe a clear PVC tube I should have stated. That connects to my central air system pump and then to my washer drainage standpipe (where the water goes out).
So a soft/flexible one, then.
Still, if you washed your hands with soap twice, I'd think that would be fine even if the pipe was compromised.
Not at room temperature.
Mostly, the problem with PVC flips is due to the plasticizer (that makes it soft) migrating out of the plastic. If you've ever seen a really old, really bad flip, not only is it slimy, but it's brittle.
ANA 50 year/Life Member (now "Emeritus")
My worry was mostly based on working around my home and lots of stuff is made with PVC. So I will just wash my hands twice with soap and dry them before touching any coins.
Sounds like you got it covered with hand washing, no worries 👍