User:ParadoxFactor/sandbox/Soft plastic issues

Soft polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics require a plasticizing additive to become soft and flexible. In some cases this additive can release from the plastic. This will cause the PVC plastic and potentially other plastics it touches to have a reaction. Not all PVC plastics have this issue with plasticizing additive releasing. Additionally this can occur to still sealed figures.

Slimy/sticky

In some cases the plasticizing additive can "sweat" out of surface of the PVC, leaving a sticky or slimy film on it. This occurs with the Pretender shells for Pretender Monster and Dinoforce. While this can be washed off with soap and water, this may cause discoloration as well. For example, Dinoforce shells taking on a green patina on the painted gold sections.

Soft plastic melting hard plastic

First identified with the Voyager Revenge of the Fallen Bludgeon, the plasticizing additives releasing from his tank treads cause other hard plastics next to them to slowly melt. This is confirmed to effect at least Hunt for the Decepticons Banzaitron. Others that share the mold may be effected as well, but it is not confirmed as of yet.

Slimy/sticky and melting

The worst of the two above issues, this cases the plastic to not only take on a slimy or sticky texture, but also causes it to melt other plastic it touches. This seems common with Fire Blast effects introduced in the War for Cybertron: Siege line, leading to them bonding with either the paint or plastic of they are attached to. This can cause paint to strip off when removed or effectively bonding the blast effect to the plastic.

Hardening and drying out

In some cases PVC plastic can dry out, loosing it's elasticity. This can cause a few issues, such as making the plastic brittle in cases like the original Shockwave's flexible arm tube. With rubber tires on cars, they can turn hard or even shrink, causing them to split.