Alexei Volkov
Preserving items in plastic is a complex task that requires careful consideration of various factors. Plastics have become integral to our lives, with many plastic artefacts holding cultural significance or personal value, making their preservation crucial. However, the preservation of plastics poses unique challenges due to their varying chemical compositions and susceptibility to degradation. Effective preservation methods include accurate identification of plastic types, optimal storage conditions, proper cleaning techniques, and careful handling practices. The identification of plastics can be achieved through chemical spot tests or instrumental analysis, such as infrared spectroscopy. Maintaining stable storage conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and ventilation, is vital to prevent contamination and slow down deterioration. Cleaning under dry conditions and handling with gloves are recommended to minimise the impact of human oils and dirt. While these practices can extend the lifespan of plastic items, it's important to recognise that degradation may still occur, and the preservation of plastics remains an evolving field of study.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Identification | Trade name, trademark, patent number, chemical spot tests, recycling code, spectroscopic technology, elemental analysis, thermal analysis, portable infrared spectrometer |
| Storage | Avoid temperature and humidity fluctuations, store in inert materials, minimise handling, avoid permanent display, avoid direct physical forces, pollutants, light, UV light, incorrect temperature and RH, avoid airtight storage, store in dark, cool, dry room, avoid dust, store separately, avoid absorbent materials |
| Cleaning | Dry conditions, brush or vacuum, avoid water or solvents, use gloves |
| Handling | Avoid wear and tear, use gloves, avoid scratches or abrasions |
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What You'll Learn
Identify the type of plastic
Identifying the type of plastic is crucial for selecting appropriate preservation methods, as different plastics have distinct characteristics, vulnerabilities, and degradation behaviours. Here are some methods to identify the type of plastic:
Recycling Symbols
An easy way to identify the type of plastic is by looking for recycling symbols, usually found at the bottom or side of plastic products. These symbols indicate the Resin Identification Code (RIC), which is a number from 1 to 7, each representing a specific type of plastic resin:
- Symbol 1 (Polyester and PET plastics): This category includes plastic bottles, clothing fibres, and materials used for insulation.
- Symbol 2 (High-Density Polyethylene/HDPE): HDPE is strong, durable, and opaque. It is often used for milk jugs, detergent bottles, and pipes.
- Symbol 3 (PVC): PVC is versatile and can be both rigid and flexible. It is commonly used for pipes, window frames, and electrical wire insulation.
- Symbol 4 (Low-Density Polyethylene/LDPE): LDPE is flexible and can be reshaped without damage. Grocery bags, juice cartons, and shrink wrap are often made from LDPE.
- Symbol 6 (Polystyrene/PS): Polystyrene is stiff, rigid, and often used for disposable cups, meat trays, and kitchen appliance casings.
- Symbol 7 ("Other"): This category includes plastics made from multiple resins or newer resins, such as polylactic acid (PLA). These plastics often have unique properties and are typically non-recyclable.
Physical Appearance and Texture
The physical appearance and texture of plastic can also provide clues about its type. For example, polypropylene (PP) appears as a white, semi-transparent, waxy substance and feels smooth to the touch. It can be bent without breaking. On the other hand, polyethylene (PE) is a white powder or transparent resin, feels wax-like and smooth, and can be bent but breaks easily. LDPE feels softer and smoother than HDPE, and when rubbed together, LDPE produces a softer, swishing sound compared to the crisper, crinklier sound of HDPE.
Scratch Test
You can use your fingernail or a knife to perform a scratch test on the plastic. If the plastic surface is easily scratched, it is likely LDPE or PP. If it's more resistant to scratches, it's probably PET or HDPE. However, these tests may not work for all types of plastics, and proper safety precautions should be taken to avoid releasing harmful fumes.
Density Test
Cut a small piece of plastic and drop it into a glass of water. If it sinks, it's likely HDPE or PVC. If it floats, it could be PET or LDPE. This method uses the density differences between plastics to identify them.
Burn Test
Apply a flame to a small piece of plastic and observe the flame colour and smell. Some plastics, like polyolefins, ignite readily, while others, like PVC, ignite with moderate enthusiasm. If the plastic burns with a yellow flame and smells like burning candles, it might be polystyrene (PS). However, this method should be approached with caution due to the potential release of harmful fumes.
Heat Application
Applying heat can help differentiate between thermoplastic and thermosetting plastics. Thermoplastics soften when heated and become transparent when molten, while thermosetting plastics maintain their hardness and do not soften, even at high temperatures.
Chemical Composition
Understanding the chemical composition of the plastic is essential for proper preservation. Some plastics, like PVC, are known to be hazardous and should be handled and stored carefully to prevent the release of harmful toxins or gases that can damage nearby objects.
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Store in a cool, dry, dark place
The first step in preserving an item in plastic is to identify the type of plastic. Plastics differ in their care needs, and each type has its own degree of vulnerability or malignancy. Chemical spot tests and instrumental analyses, such as infrared spectroscopy (IRS), can be used to identify the specific type of plastic. Identification of the plastic is crucial for effective preservation as different types of plastics have varying resistance to thermal oxidation, photooxidation, and hydrolysis, the main degradation reactions.
Once the type of plastic has been identified, the next step is to prepare the storage area. Plastics should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place. The ideal temperature is 20 degrees Celsius, and the relative humidity should be maintained between 30% and 50%. It is important to avoid sharp fluctuations in temperature and humidity as these can be especially damaging to plastics. The storage area should be well-ventilated, allowing air to flow freely around the items. However, the space should be dust-free, and items should not be placed in direct contact with each other. Ideally, each type of plastic should be stored separately.
In addition to controlling the environmental conditions, it is important to handle plastic items with care. Oils and dirt from hands can affect the plastic over time, so it is recommended to handle items with clean hands or wear gloves. Gloves made of inert materials such as latex are preferable to cotton gloves, as cotton may leave specks of lint on plastics that have become tacky. When cleaning plastic items, avoid using water or solvents as improper cleaning techniques can cause damage. Instead, gently brush or vacuum the items under dry conditions.
By following these guidelines for storage and handling, one can effectively preserve items in plastic and slow down the process of degradation. However, it is important to note that degradation of plastics is often unpredictable and irreversible, so regular monitoring and care are crucial.
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Avoid permanent display
The preservation of plastic items is a complex and evolving area. Conservators are still working to determine best practices, and they may change over time. Plastic is inherently unstable and may deteriorate, but there are ways to slow down this process.
Firstly, the type of plastic must be identified. Different plastics have different vulnerabilities and malignancies, and this will determine the best preservation strategy. Identification can be done through chemical spot tests or instrumental analysis, with the latter being preferred.
Once the type of plastic is known, the appropriate storage conditions can be determined. Plastic items should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place, with a stable temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius and relative humidity (RH) of 30-50%. It is important to avoid sharp fluctuations in temperature and RH, as this can be damaging. Light exposure should be limited, and UV light must be filtered out or avoided altogether.
To prevent contamination and deterioration, plastic items should be stored in inert materials that will not react with the plastic. Polypropylene trays are a good option, and plastic items should be stored separately to avoid them touching each other. The storage area should be well-ventilated, with clean air provided by special particle and gas filtration systems.
When handling plastic items, it is important to minimise contact and wear gloves if possible, as the oils and dirt from hands can affect the plastic over time. If the plastic has movable parts, be gentle to prevent wear and tear.
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Clean with dry methods
To preserve an item in plastic, cleaning with dry methods is an essential step. Here are some detailed instructions for this process:
Firstly, it is important to identify the type of plastic you are dealing with, as different plastics have varying degrees of vulnerability and resistance to degradation. For example, PE has poor resistance to thermal oxidation and photo-oxidation, but excellent resistance to hydrolysis. Knowing the specific plastic will help you choose the most effective preservation techniques.
Once you have identified the plastic, you can begin cleaning. The best approach is to clean the object under dry conditions, using gentle, mechanical methods. This can include carefully brushing away any surface dirt or dust with a soft-bristled brush, or using a soft cloth, sponge, or cotton swab. Microfibre cloths, a mix of polyester and polyamide, are ideal. Ensure the cloth is lint-free to avoid leaving fibres on the plastic. If the object has movable parts, be gentle to prevent wear and tear.
Vacuuming is another effective dry cleaning method, especially for intricate objects with hard-to-reach areas. However, always handle the item with care to avoid causing abrasions or scratches. Remember to wear clean cotton gloves when handling the item, as the oils and dirt from your hands can affect the plastic over time.
If the object has a significant build-up of dirt or grime that is not removed by dry methods, do not be tempted to use water or solvents. These can cause irreversible damage to certain plastics. Instead, contact a conservator for advice on more intensive cleaning techniques.
Finally, to reduce future cleaning requirements, store the plastic item in a well-ventilated area with clean air, away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and humidity. Keep the object on a strong, padded support, ensuring it does not touch any other items.
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Handle with gloves
When preserving items in plastic, handling with gloves is an important consideration. Gloves can protect the item from the oils and dirt on your hands, which can cause deterioration over time. Many types of objects are susceptible to the oils from human skin, including photographs, film, metals, and ivory. Gloves also protect the handler from hazardous materials, such as arsenic, which was used as a preservative for taxidermy before the 1980s. If mould is present, nitrile gloves are recommended.
However, gloves can limit dexterity, which can be problematic when handling delicate items. For example, gloves can increase the risk of tearing paper or causing damage to textiles. In some cases, clean, dry hands may be sufficient or even preferred, such as when handling textiles to avoid snagging on the fabric. It is also important to consider the type of glove, as some materials may be better suited for certain tasks or objects. Vinyl, nitrile, or latex gloves are often preferred by institutions as they fit closely to the skin and provide better tactile sensitivity compared to cotton gloves.
When handling items with movable parts, it is important to be gentle to prevent wear and tear. Additionally, proper cleaning techniques should be used to avoid damage. Mild soap and water are no longer recommended for cleaning plastic items. Instead, dry cleaning methods such as careful brushing or vacuuming are suggested. Overall, it is crucial to understand the specific handling requirements for the item being preserved and to consult a conservator if unsure.
The preservation of plastic items also involves identifying the type of plastic and its vulnerabilities. Different types of plastics have varying resistance to degradation reactions such as thermal oxidation, photooxidation, and hydrolysis. Identification methods include chemical spot tests and instrumental analysis, with infrared spectroscopy (IRS) being a preferred method. Once identified, specific preventive conservation strategies can be implemented to control chemical deterioration and slow down the effects of ageing.
To summarise, handling with gloves is an important consideration when preserving items in plastic. Gloves can protect both the item and the handler from contaminants and hazardous materials. However, the limitations of gloves, such as reduced dexterity, should also be taken into account. Proper handling and cleaning techniques are crucial to prevent damage and slow down the deterioration process of plastic items.
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Frequently asked questions
The type of plastic can often be identified by trade name, trademark, or patent number. If there are no such markings, spectroscopic technology such as optical spectrometry or infrared spectroscopy can be used to identify the plastic.
Plastic items should be stored in a cool, dry, dark room with a temperature of 20°C and relative humidity (RH) of 30-50%. It is important to avoid sharp fluctuations in temperature and RH, as these can be damaging. The storage area should be well-ventilated and dust-free, but not airtight.
Deterioration of plastic items can be caused by various factors, including age, chemical composition, improper storage, and handling. To prevent deterioration, it is important to identify the type of plastic and its specific vulnerabilities. Different plastics have varying resistance to thermal oxidation, photo-oxidation, and hydrolysis. Controlling the relevant degradation agents is crucial for preserving plastic items.
When handling plastic items, it is recommended to wear gloves made of an inert material such as latex. Cotton gloves may leave specks of lint on tacky plastics. Avoid using rubber bands or adhesive tapes as they may react adversely with the plastic surface. For cleaning, dry methods such as brushing or vacuuming are preferred. Mild soap and water, previously recommended, are no longer advised.
Yes, it is important to identify and separate highly malignant or unstable plastics that may release toxic or acidic vapors and damage other objects. Ventilation and filtration systems can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, plastic items should not be on permanent display due to light exposure concerns.
