Introduction
The physical properties of most rubber products change in unfavourable storage conditions or with improper handling. They can become unusable, for instance, by excessive hardening, by softening, by permanent set as well as by flaking, cracking or by other surface damage. The changes can be caused by the effects of, for instance, oxygen, ozone, heat, light, moisture, solvents, or by storage under load. The properties of rubber products which are properly stored and handled are almost unchanged over long periods (several years).

Store Room
The storeroom should be cool, dry and dust-free; it should have moderate ventilation.

Temperature
The temperature should be above +15°C but must not exceed +25°C, since this can lead to a deterioration of physical properties and to a shortening of the lifetime.

Heating
Radiators and pipes for heating the stores should be shielded. Sources of heat in storerooms should be designed in such a way that the temperature of the articles stored therein does not exceed 25°C. The distance between radiators and stored goods must be at least 1 metre.