If your keyboard keys look like they’ve been dipped in fried chicken grease, you’re not alone. This slippery phenomenon plagues ABS plastic keycaps – let’s dissect the science behind this oily invasion.

Fresh ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) keycaps start smooth and matte. But as fingers tap away:

• Friction Warfare: Every keystroke grinds off microscopic plastic particles.
• Oil Infiltration: Skin oils penetrate surface pores like Trojan horses.

The real culprit? Plasticizer Migration:

• Chemical Betrayal: Additives like phthalates (softening agents) rise to the surface over time.
• Oxidation Onslaught: Oxygen molecules attack weakened polymer chains, creating sticky byproducts.

A perfect storm of:

• Hydrolysis: Humidity splits polymer bonds (worse in tropical climates).
• UV Assault: Sunlight accelerates breakdown – your desk lamp is an accomplice.
• Bacterial Party: Oily surfaces attract Staphylococcus microbes that feast on dead skin cells.

PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) has:

• Tighter Molecular Chains: Crystalline structure repels oil like Teflon.
• No Plasticizers: Won’t leak sticky residues.
• Higher Melting Point: Survives 220°C vs ABS’s 105°C – literally tougher stuff.

1. Prevention:

• Wash hands before typing (reduces oil transfer by 60%).
• Use PBT keycaps for WASD/spacebar – high-contact zones.

2. Cleaning:

• Dab isopropyl alcohol (70%) – dissolves oils without crazing plastic.
• Avoid toothpaste "hacks" – abrasives accelerate shine.

3. Embrace the Grunge:

• Customize PBT keycap sets – turn defects into aesthetics.