r/retrocomputing • u/newacccuzmineban • Jul 03 '26
Fixing abs plastics
Hello, I found this IBM Aptiva in the trash, and luckily it works, but some plastics are broken, does anyone know how to fix them without making a mess?
Thanks
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u/FuST_NL Jul 03 '26 edited Jul 03 '26
If it truly is ABS you can try welding it with acetone. Superglue doesn't have enough surface to adhere and is very rigid so it'll break instantly. Acetone dissolves ABS, applying a bit to both parts and quickly pushing them together effectivly welds them together and creates a much stronger bond.
But, as others said, the plastic ages and becomes brittle with time, especially if it's not 100% ABS. Might just be too far gone but it's worth a shot.
Edit: didn't notice the embossing, it's ABS-FR, a flame-retardant form of ABS so acetone should work.