HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE AND POLYVINYL-ALCOHOL ON PAPER AS FIXATIVES FOR PIGMENTS AND DYES

The aim of this experiment was to find (semi-)synthetic adhesives for the restoration of graphic works of art, thus permitting the fixation of pigments without damaging the paper or changing the quality of the usual effect of all the colours. we decided to investigate the possibi lity of employing of a hydroxypropyl cellulose (Klucel G) and a polyvi nyl alcohol of low molecular weight (Unitika Poval UP-050), the former in an alcohol solution and the latter in a water-alcohol solution. Al l experimental data point to the fact that neither polymer is damaging to the cellulose and furthermore that they exert protection against c hemical deterioration. Optical measurements show that Klucel G and PVA I do not alter the colours of the pigments to which they are applied. Other tests on the effectiveness of the fixing were carried out by imm ersion of the protected pigments in water and in a deacidification sol ution. During and after the baths all pigments were stable and still r emain so.