Conservation of Plastics in Museum Collections

Over the last 150 years of plastics evolution—from celluloid to the most advanced technopolymers—an infinite number of artifacts in every color, pattern, shape, and form have been produced with plastics using a wide range of manufacturing methods from molding and casting to 3-D technologies. A great number of these artifacts are currently in museum collections and many are posing challenges for the conservators charged with their care.

Especially troubling for conservators and collectors is the potential for these objects to experience rapid and often spectacular disintegration with very little advance warning. Without research into this area, the problem can only escalate. To support professionals facing the issues posed by plastics, the Conservation Institute is undertaking a series of workshops to disseminate the current state of knowledge regarding the conservation of plastics and rubbers.

These workshops integrate teaching material developed over the past decade by conservator Anna Laganà and conservation scientist Thea van Oosten, as well as the latest research conducted at the Institute.

• Familiarize participants with various plastics materials produced throughout history Improve participants' theoretical background on the conservation of plastics
• Improve participants' practical skills on the treatment of collection objects made of plastics
• Develop critical thinking skills that will help participants to estimate risks, establish suitable approaches into the preservation of plastics, and design appropriate conservation treatments for their conservation

Thea van Oosten, conservation scientist, The Netherlands