There is a chemical made specifically for testing Catalin and it can be found on some Antique Dealer sites.  However, it is best to train your eye when it comes to determining if something is Catalin.  

Although some Catalin radios and other items may have been made very thick they may also be thin.  Catalin is a poured or cast plastic which allows it to be made thick but in the case of Emerson Patriot radios of the early 40's Monsanto Plastic was the supplier of these Catalin cases and they have walls that are a little thinner than those made by Catalin Corp.  

Sometimes Catalin items were made of more than one color filler and this will give the piece a degree of swirling but by the same token some Catalin is solid in color without any swirling so knowing the product is highly recommended.  eBay is a great place to study these items.  

A striking note about many Catalin items is the level of discoloration that takes place.  Without getting scientific, as Catalin is exposed to the environment and light it will get darker in many cases.  Whites turn yellow or 'Butterscotch', Blue's and Green's will get dark brown.  However, Red and Maroon are very colorfast and tend not to discolor too much.  

Below is an ad by Catalin for the Taylor Barometer Company.  The item is clearly shown in bright blue and white.  Today you will find many of these barometers in an ugly brown and bright butterscotch.  Removal of  the discoloration requires a professional who restores Catalin (see Plastic Links page).  Many prefer to leave the discoloration alone and call it a Patina...ok whatever works.

Generally Catalin can be found in a wide variety of colors and color combinations.   To see more Catalin items go to:  Catalin Radios

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