Green Goo!

[brucelee]

IET had it in the wiring matters magazine last month as above rewire

 

[MarkieSparkie]

Green Goo happens when cables are operated near their maximum conductor operating temperature, the green colouring is caused by the chemical reaction of PVC plasticiser on hot copper. It can also happen at lower temperatures in colourless, grey or black forms depending on the insulation chemistry, when the PVC insulation comes into contact with polystyrene (tiles & wall membrane for example), solid insulation foams (Cellotex and similar), expanding foam (Everbuild expanding foam & similar) and construction fillers (solvent version of Gripfill & similar).

 

[barnyparker]

Hi
I've just noticed green gunk in plug socket and wire about a metre before when moving a plug socket. Also in another bedroom, from what I've read the wire needs to be replaced, but how urgent is it.

Thanks

Steve

 

[Strima]

4) Action if Greening is found

Therefore whenever this green substance is found at socket outlets etc.
initially it should be removed and the terminations cleaned (gloves should
be used) otherwise it is possible that tracking/overheating may occur. It is
strongly recommended that rewiring should be carried out as soon as
possible. ​

​

Hi
I've just noticed green gunk in plug socket and wire about a metre before when moving a plug socket. Also in another bedroom, from what I've read the wire needs to be replaced, but how urgent is it.

Thanks

Steve

Highlighted bit from Sintras post.

 

[Crosswire]

"The exudate is of low flammability and low toxicity. Although
unsightly it does not reduce the electrical integrity of the conductor or the
insulation."

I'm confused.

If this is true, then why an automatic rewire without an IR test?

 

[jeremy]

I'm also confused; most cases of reduced IR that I've encountered have involved green slime. I'd always test IR though, if only to demonstrate to the client.

 

[rich.250]

I've tried to get it to consist and can't. Lol. Had a load of sockets covered in the stuff at home and they'd all take a 1000v off my mft. And all >999M

I don't think it's the goo that conducts but it degrades cable insulation.
As said above.

 

[rich.250]

Consist = conduct. iPhone hates electrical terms.

 

[paddyc3112]

i have had contact with this green goo and it is very irritant on contact with the skin... avoid contact with your eyes because they will feel like they are on fire as i have found out!!

 

[Dean Williams]

i found green goo all over the wiring at the local theatre. i found out what its called from the 'switched on' magazine - di-isoctyl phthlate.
the council took samples and sent it to an independant chemist who identified it as such but could not say whether or not its hazardous, so theyre seeking advice from another chemist.
In the uk, the HSE say its mildly toxic, avoid contact with eyes, lips etc and wear gloves when near it. The HSE in USA say its carcinogenic and have banned its use.