Reinforced strength evaluation of binding material for the restoration of Chinese ancient lacquer furniture

Abstract

Lacquer, bone glue, and poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) were selected in this work as the reinforced binding components for the restoration of lacquer furniture. Three response variables related to the strength of the binding material were studied: cohesive strength of lacquer film, binding situation, and the permeation of adhesive. In addition to mechanical tests, specimens were observed directly and by scanning election microscopy (SEM). The cohesive strength of lacquer film attached by lacquer, bone glue, and PVAc was evaluated on specimens with three kinds of ground layer, including stucco with pig-blood, stucco with lacquer, and the ground layer with titanium dioxide. The permeation of lacquer, bone glue, and PVAc could be determined by SEM. The results shows that strong reinforcement can be achieved by strong cohesive strength of lacquer film, a suitable binding situation, and suitable permeation of the adhesive. Intermediate strength is obtained in the case of intermediate cohesive strength, an intermediate binding situation, and less then optimal permeation. Weak reinforcement results from weak cohesive strength, a poor binding situation, and insufficient permeation.