|
Epoxy Resins in Stone Consolidation
 |
Photo: K.L. Gauri |
The
publication of this seventh volume in the Getty Conservation Institute's
Research in Conservation series, Epoxy Resins in Stone Consolidation,
marks the first such work on architectural conservation. This book
presents a review of research on the use of expoxy resins as consolidants
for sculpture and buildings. It deals with both the methods and
materials used by conservators, focusing on a detailed chemistry
of the materials as well as the practical methods of application.
Epoxy resins have been widely used as structural adhesives to repair
cracks in commercial and historic buildings, but the application
of this technology to the stabilization of fragile stone has generally
failed. However, the proper formulation of epoxy systems with solvents
has solved problems of viscosity, penetration, crust formation,
and discoloration, leading to two different schools of treatment
detailed in the publication. Conservators in Europe have concentrated
on the treatment of statuary and isolated sections of structures,
with alcohol solutions of the resins maintained in contact with
the surface for a period of time in order to get deep penetration.
In the United States, treatment has focused on stabilizing entire
structures or major portions of buildings by spraying them with
acetone solutions of epoxy resins.
The various techniques of application are discussed and evaluated.
The book seeks to provide an expanded inventory of these different
techniques allowing the conservator to make informed judgments.
This publication is out of print. A PDF version is available.
|
