Presented by Pilar Hernandez Romera, Photograph Conservator, Ottawa Museum Network (see program for other co-authors)
Such a practical topic – the opening incident a spill on photographs discovered after – no surprise – an opening at a museum… no witness. The museum needed assistance.
Tests objectives – to find an appropriate cleaning method. To know how much time one must react. To discover the liquid.
The testing involved observing the effects of beverages on the emulsion…. An exhaustive list of the possible suspects or culprits developed that might be gel-like – not red wine, for example.
Investigated techniques for removing stains from fabrics – using absorbing materials that may include blotter, filter paper, cotton swabs, and paper towels… Teas diagram used for the solvents… but what are the components of beverages? Checked out the principal materials.
Tested water, ethanol, and acetone. Tested on glass and gelatin silver plates. Various beverages dropped on surfaces. Practical focus appreciated. Liquid absorbed best by blotter – cotton swab not effective. Residues may be glued to the blotter.
Water not effective – very slow. Ethanol did not solubilize the materials. Acetone left foggy appearance.
Mix of 20-80 water – acetone had the best results in solubilizing the residues. Popular housekeeping techniques are clearly not possible.
Second sample prepared with reproduction of black-and – white print hung in the same way with 10 ml of the beverage. (Interesting methodology.) Checked progression of the drops when applied. (based on viscosity and composition of the beverage.)
Some of these materials caused stains that could not be removed. Coke and Coke Light and Beer could not be removed especially. Effects include stains. Emulsion deformation and swollen emulsion caused by sugar inclusion.
Cleaning tried with Gel acetone Klucel G 8%. Good results with champagne and white wine. Beer as well. Coke and Coke light staining remained – no cleaning possible. Attempted to study multiple cleaning.
RESULTS
Blot the excess.
- Water-acetone 20-80 mixture to solubilize residue.
Time is crucial.
Acetone gel can be applied – required more research.
Lager beer caused less damage… sugar and viscous liquids cause swelling. Coke problematic.
Water and champagne the best – here the drinks may be limited for receptions that occur near receptions. No questions.