When latex degrades, it often enters a gummy, sticky state where it liquefies and fuses to surrounding fabrics, threads, and drawstring. The degraded rubber has essentially melted and acted like an adhesive inside the drawstring casing, permanently locking the drawstring in place.
Why It becomes gummy?
Unlike some synthetics that get brittle and snap, natural rubber and certain latex compounds undergo a specific type of chemical breakdown called scission. The long polymer chains break into shorter pieces, turning the firm elastic into a soft, sticky mass. This reaction is heavily accelerated by:
- Leaving the damp swimsuit trapped in a hot car or gym bag.
- Repeated exposure to body heat and sunscreens.
- Age combined with moisture.
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