An Evaluation of Antioxidants for the Conservation of Museum Textiles

Abstract

Selected antioxidants were evaluated for their ability to reduce yellowing, fading, and strength loss of textiles when applied by an immersion technique similar to cleaning procedures used by museum conservators. Undyed silk, wool, linen and cotton specimens, along with wool specimens dyed with three natural dyes, were treated with seven antioxidants representing three chemical classes—phenols, phosphites and propionates. The treated fabric specimens were exposed to 80 AFU's of xenon light, followed by instrumental color evaluations using a Hunterlab D25-M tristimulus colorimeter and breaking strengt. measurements using a CRE-500 Scott tensile strength tester. Results showed that two phosphite antioxidants significantly reduced yellowing of all four undyed natural fibers, but none of the antioxidants reduced fading of wool dyed with natural dyes. Some antioxidants slightly suppressed fiber degradation of undyed silk, wool, and linen. In general, antioxidant treatments did not reduce strength losses in naturally dyed wool. Based on these results antioxidants examined in the study cannot be recommended for use on colored museum textiles. However, two phosphite antioxidants showed promise for use on undyed museum textiles such as table linens, quilts and christening gowns.