What could cause light haze inside a lense?

I was reading auctions from a seller, and a number of his lenses are described to have 'light haze' inside. What could have cause it? Is it moisture?

http://www.ebay.com …3a1251:g:oAgAAO​SwEgVWTBDc

One common possibility is storing the lenses in something like a Ziploc bag. They give off a gas as they age and it is known to deposit on glass surfaces. Being a gas it also travel well into the lens. Could be a smoking household as well.

I personally would pass on these lenses and seek others elsewhere. Do a search on KEH or even check Adorama for used lenses. They are returnable and condition graded.

It could be moisture, or a fungus. I wouldn't buy it.

And moisture can turn into fungus and it will do what fungus does - grows.

fyi, that is a nikon lens, were you planning to adapt to canon? This is the canon lenses section after all.

if you were planning to adapt, you can find the OM24 for similar price, and more highly regarded. You should check KEH as well, they offer a great selection on used glass.

John from PA wrote in post #17830919
One common possibility is storing the lenses in something like a Ziploc bag. They give off a gas as they age and it is known to deposit on glass surfaces. Being a gas it also travel well into the lens. Could be a smoking household as well.

I personally would pass on these lenses and seek others elsewhere. Do a search on KEH or even check Adorama for used lenses. They are returnable and condition graded.

The "gas" would be plasticizers, which are used in almost all plastic and rubber. Plasticizers are actually thick liquids, but they vaporize slowly depositing everywhere. They contribute to the "new car smell" and are a big reason you need to clean the insides of car glass from time to time.

I have not experienced deposition on a lens, but it sounds possible.

Whatever the cause, it does not sound good.