Hi, after reading some more on the devastating effects of PVC I'm wondering if there is any way of detecting PVC in my collection storage items. I have 2 big blue Whitman slab holders that I haven't used for a while or that much, I recently opened them and they have a pungent plasticy smell to them... not sure though if it's pvc or not. Also I have 4x4 pages that hold 2x2 carboard mounts, I have looked at these and the ones that I havent used (which are stiffer than some other ones that I have) stick together and have bubbles or something between the sheet and the little flap, and I'm worried that this might contain pvc. And should there be any items for paper money or coins that I should stay away from because of potentially hazardous materials? Thank you for any thoughts,methods, or answers!
As a general rule the best thing to do is to contact the manufacturers when you know who they are. With Whitman, they have a web site and many toll free numbers. Contact them, describe what you have and ask if those contain PVC or anything harmfull to your coins. If you don't trust what they will say, mention your having this conversation recorded. They always say that. As to any holders for coins, attempt to always know who made them and to the same. I've found recently many 2x2's are now being made in China. None of these are in boxes and all bulk sold at coin shows. Not sure how many are sold on line by on line dealers though. Also, difficult to contact China and ask them anything. If in doubt, rather than trying to figure out if safe or not, just redo with newer, name brand merchandise. I know it may sound expensive but as I always say, better to be safe than sorry.
If it smells like a new shower curtain or is very soft and pliable then it is likely it contains PVC.
Somewhat scientifically, I would recommend this resource which gives 3 different ways to detect PVC from other common plastics. http://www.brent-krueger.com/howtopvc.html I prefer the flame test myself. Jim
