Conservation of Plastics in Museum Collections

Workshop series aimed at spreading knowledge of the current state of conservation of plastics and rubbers

Project Details

Plastic objects including combs, toys, dinnerware, pitchers, jewelry

About

Goal

An infinite number of artifacts have been produced with plastics using a wide range of methods. A great number of these objects are in museum collections and many are posing challenges for conservators. Especially troubling is the potential for these objects to experience rapid and often spectacular disintegration with little warning. To support professionals facing these issues, this project is presenting a workshop series on current knowledge in the conservation of plastics and rubbers.

Outcomes

  • Conservation of Plastics in Museum Collections workshop, which took place in July 2018 focused on the conservation of three-dimensional objects, combining theory and practice through lectures, practical sessions, and group discussions.
  • The first online workshop dedicated exclusively to the treatment of PMMA, or poly (methyl methacrylate), was held virtually in March 2021, exploring the development of successful and safe surface treatments for this plastic, as well as the preparation of resins and their use in the repair of scratches and chips on PMMA.

Background

Project Team

Anna Laganà, Principal Research Specialist; Stéphanie Auffret, Senior Project Specialist