Non-Invasive Characterization and Identification of Plastics

One of five needleworking tools (2012.0024.101) from the Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library collection analyzed for this project

Goals of this research:

  • Establish an ATR-FTIR spectral library and a Reflection FTIR spectral library of plastics commonly found in museum collections.

  • Perform plastics identification with the above two FTIR techniques for study collection objects and objects from the Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library needleworking collection.

  • Utilize common plastics identification spot tests to compare accessibility and effectiveness of invasive techniques with the non-invasive FTIR analytical techniques.

  • Research and compile basic historical context and polymer information about the plastics used in this study.

  • Tape Measure (2012.0024.097)

  • Discussing Specular Reflection-FTIR Results with Dr. Liora Mael

  • Hydroxylamine Hydrochloride Test Setup

  • pH Test Results

  • Presenting Our Project at the Yearly ANAGPIC Conference

Localized Electrolytic Dechlorination of Archaeological Iron Using Hydrogels

Diagram of localized three-electrode electrolytic setup

Goals of this research:

  • Become familiar with and practice electrolytic dechlorination on archaeological metals.

  • Test the efficacy and practicality of localized dechlorination.

  • Test the efficacy and practicality of using hydrogels as an electrolyte solution in lieu of a traditional electrolyte bath solution.