Polyuretansvamp i kontakt med papper - en jämförande studie inom konservering

Abstract

Dry surface cleaning methods are essential tools in paper conservation-restoration. Polyurethane sponges, also known as cosmetic sponges, are fairly new tools to the conservation field but are used by several conservation disciplines for dry surface cleaning. However, availably literature regarding potential surface residues or alteration due to usage of polyurethane sponges is limited. The aim of the study was to evaluate the suitability of the usage of polyurethane sponges in paper conservation, focusing on surface residues and the sponges impact on the paper surface. In a comparative study between polyurethane sponges and soot sponges surface residue experiments and cross section analysis were carried out on two types of paper. The two different of papers, one smooth and one coarse paper, originated from the same pulp. The samples were analyzed with stereo microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The analysis revealed residues from both types of sponges. However, the amount of soot sponge particles were significantly higher, especially in the size interval 1-5 μm. The cross sections and surface analysis of the paper samples showed no aggregation of the paper surfaces or fibers caused by either sponge. No significant difference in the amounts of particles could be associated with the two different papers’ surface textures. The small amount of polyurethane sponge particles and lack of paper surface aggregation speaks in favour for the suitability of the polyurethane sponge, compared to soot sponges, as a conservation tool for sized rag paper. But further studies are necessary before the polyurethane sponges potentially could be incorporated as a reliable and principally correct tool for surface cleaning in paper conservation-preservation treatments.