Why MacBooks Cords Turn Yellow: Understanding the Chemical and Environmental Factors
The process of MacBooks cords turning yellow over time can be attributed to various factors related to both the environment and the materials used in their construction. Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining the longevity and functionality of your cables. This article will delve into the reasons behind the yellowing of MacBook cords and provide practical solutions to minimize this phenomenon.
Understanding the Factors Behind Cord Yellowing
MacBook cords, particularly the rubber or plastic parts, can yellow due to a combination of internal and external factors. This discoloration is not only unsightly but can also impact the performance of the cable over time. Let's explore the key reasons why these cords turn yellow.
1. UV Exposure
UV Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or fluorescent light can cause the materials to degrade and yellow. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and artificial light sources like fluorescent lamps can break down the chemical bonds in the plastic, leading to yellowing. It is important to store your cords in a shaded area or use a cable storage case with UV protection to minimize this damage.
2. Heat
Heat: The heat generated during charging can also contribute to the discoloration of the cords. As the charge passes through the cable, it can produce a significant amount of heat, especially if the cable is of sub-par quality. Continuous exposure to high temperatures can accelerate the breakdown of the materials. To mitigate this, it is advisable to use power adapters and cables that are specifically designed for high temperatures and can handle the heat generated during charging.
3. Oxidation
Oxidation: The plastic parts of the cords can undergo oxidation when they come into contact with air and moisture. This process can also contribute to the yellowing of the material. Proper storage and handling of the cords can help reduce the exposure to moisture, thereby minimizing the risk of oxidation and yellowing.
4. Chemical Reactions
Chemical Reactions: The surface of the cords can come into contact with oils from your skin, sweat, and dust particles in the environment. These contaminants can lead to chemical reactions that cause the plastic to yellow. Regular cleaning of the cords can help reduce the build-up of these contaminants and prevent discoloration.
5. Quality of Materials
Quality of Materials: The quality of the materials used in the construction of the cords can also play a significant role. Lower-quality plastics may yellow more quickly than higher-quality alternatives. Choosing premium cables that are made from more durable and long-lasting materials can help extend the life of your cords and reduce the likelihood of yellowing.
Practical Solutions to Minimize Yellowing
To minimize the yellowing of your MacBook cords, it is recommended to store them away from direct sunlight and keep them clean. You should also avoid exposing them to high temperatures. Some manufacturers offer cables made from high-quality materials that are less prone to yellowing even after prolonged use.
Replacing Cords with Japan-Made Alternatives
If you want to avoid the issue of yellowing, you can replace your cords with Japan-made alternatives that are specifically designed not to change color over time. Japan is renowned for its high-quality manufacturing processes, and the cables produced there often feature advanced materials that can withstand environmental factors without discoloration.
Handling Yellowing Cords
For cords that have already turned yellow, it is essential not to attempt to remove the discoloration using aggressive methods like peroxide. Using peroxide on original cables may melt the material, causing it to become sticky and potentially leading to shorts or even fires. Instead, you can protect the original cable by storing it in a sun-protected case, which will help it last longer.
Chemical Additives and Yellowing
LTDR: Photodegradation and Flame Retardant Additives: As mentioned earlier, the material composition plays a significant role in the yellowing process. For example, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is commonly used in charger cases. While it can yellow under UV exposure, the real culprit is the flame retardant additives used in these plastics. These additives are added to meet safety standards like FEC c60695-11-5, IEC 60695-2-11, UL94 5VA, EN 50642, and EN 61386-1. These additives break down slowly over time and contribute to the yellowing of the material.
Older plastic casings often contained halogen-based bromine flame retardants, which yellowed more quickly. However, modern flame retardants are halogen-free and produce less yellowing. If you want to restore the yellowed plastic, a procedure using UV light and hydrogen peroxide might be effective at breaking down the yellow caused by these additives.