Disc rot is a term that often causes concern among physical media enthusiasts, particularly those who collect DVDs, CDs, and Blu-rays. But what is disc rot, and does it really exist? In this post, we’ll explore the causes of disc rot and how to prevent it from affecting your collection.
Disc rot is a term used to describe the degradation of optical discs, which can cause them to become unplayable. While some people believe that all discs will eventually succumb to disc rot, this is not entirely accurate. In fact, disc rot primarily occurs as a result of poor manufacturing processes or environmental factors.
Poor manufacturing processes are one of the primary causes of disc rot. Specifically, substandard adhesives used between the layers of a disc can break down or undergo a chemical reaction with the plastic, rendering the disc unplayable. This type of disc rot can be identified by tiny pinholes in the disc, which are visible when you shine a light on it.
Environmental factors can also cause disc rot. For example, storing discs in extreme temperatures or humidity levels can cause delamination of the layers and oxidation of the foil layer. Scratching the disc, exposing it to UV light, or submerging it in water or chemicals can also cause disc rot.
However, if you properly care for your discs and store them in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment, they can last for a very long time. Disc rot is not something you need to be afraid of if you know the history of your disc and take steps to prevent it from occurring.
To prevent disc rot, store your discs in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight. Additionally, always return your discs to their cases after use and avoid stacking them on top of each other. Vertical or horizontal storage does not matter, contrary to popular belief.
In conclusion, while disc rot is a concern for physical media enthusiasts, it primarily occurs as a result of poor manufacturing processes or environmental factors. By properly caring for your discs and storing them in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment, you can prevent disc rot from affecting your collection.