Icky-pick

The filled cable itself, therefore, is called an "icky PIC".

Icky-pick has two primary functions: The actual icky-pick compound is a very thick petroleum-based substance e.g. petroleum jelly, and is only rated for outdoor use, frequently direct-buried in the ground.

An outdoor cable spliced onto an indoor terminal block is prone to leak the gelatin, hence in many situations the icky-pic cable is spliced outside the building to a short run of normal cable which runs through a protective conduit into the building.

The thick gel stains clothing and hands and is very difficult to remove.

Paint thinner or charcoal starter is a frequently used and commonly available remover and clean-up agent.