I have a couple unbuilt kits that have vacuform canopies which seem to have yellowed. What is the best way to store vacuform canopies to prevent them from becoming brittle or discolored? If the canopies have become brittle or discolored are there methods to restore them?
I would guess(never used it myself) that a dip in Future (when they are new) would help preserve them. Don’t know about bringing it back. Clear GLOSS LAQUER is also safe on clear parts, never use flat or enamels though!
I’m not a chemical engineer, but I’m pretty sure that once the plastic itself is yellowed, you are out of luck as it has undergone a chemical change. Not unlike what happens to vinyl tires and tank treads sometimes, they just chemically decompose.
You can try lightly sanding it with a polishing cloth or 12000 grit sanding pad - I would test a small portion first - to see if the yellowing is just on the surface, then dip it it Future to see if that will restore the clarity.
You smoke? If so, clean 'em with Windex…