Search for tag: "metals conservation"

This video demonstrates the following mechanical cleaning methods on a corroded ferrous object: mineral spirits; micro scalpel; and 0000 steel wool with mineral spirits.

This video demonstrates the following polishing methods on an oxidized copper alloy object: slurry of water and calcium carbonate; slurry of water and aluminum oxide; and MicroMesh polishing cloth.

This video demonstrates the following polishing methods on a tarnished silver object: Mars Staedtler eraser; slurry of water and calcium carbonate; slurry of water and aluminum oxide; and extremely…

Drips often form when brush- or spray-lacquering, but these can be easily fixed if you catch them quickly enough.

Spray lacquering a silver plate with 1:2 Agateen Lacquer #27 (nitrocellulose) / Agateen Lacquer Thinner #1 with 0.025 wt.% coumarin 6 (UV-fluorescent) dye additive.

Brush lacquering a silver fork with 1:1 Agateen Lacquer #27 (nitrocellulose) / Agateen Lacquer Thinner #1 with 0.025 wt.% coumarin 6 (UV-fluorescent) dye additive.

Mechanical polishing of silver offers the greatest amount of control as compared to other cleaning methods, such as chemical dips or electrolytic setups. Lab grade (chemically pure, homogenous…

On silver objects that do not have organic or other solvent-sensitive components but are coated with cellulose nitrate lacquer, poultices with cotton pads soaked in acetone solvent can safely and…

The use of pressurized steam to remove cellulose nitrate lacquer from non-plated silver causes it to lift, sometimes in large sheets.

On silver objects that are not plated but are coated with cellulose nitrate lacquer, pressurized steam from a handheld dental steamer can safely and effectively remove the previously applied coating.

Washing silver in a bath of dilute nonionic surfactant helps soften some tarnish and remove polish residues. Rinse in a bath of clean water.