Green liquid on electrical plugs?

[fan-of-fans]

I recently found an older Hoover vacuum and notice there is a green fluid-like substance around the plug prongs. I have noticed this goo on another vintage appliance plug in the past, but I happened to be rewiring it so it wasn't an issue.

But this time I was hoping to keep the original plug and cord intact. I did a little research and this green goo seems to be a reaction between the copper wire and the cord insulation. It doesn't seem to be conductive and the general idea I seemed to get is to clean the stuff off and possibly replace the wires if necessary. It seems this is an issue with cables made in 1960s and 70s.

Has anyone else ran into this problem and what action did you take?

 

[davetranter]

Green Goo

I've not met with this in a vacuum cleaner setting, but we did have some problems where I used to work. In our case, it was caused by the plastic starting to decompose, and a liquid (or hygroscopic) decomposition product reacting with the copper. Sadly, there is little to be done about it. If you clean it off, it will eventually return. We were always advised not to get any on our skin!!

All best

Dave T

P.S. Does the plug and/or cable have a 'slimy' or 'oily' feel?? Ours did.

 

[fan-of-fans]

No it feels very dry, however the cord is stiff.

 

[rinaric15]

It's plasticiser from the pvc insulation,

You may need to shut off your electricity and install a new outlet, can affect your wires in some cases.