Email digest for the Global Conservation Forum (ConsDistList) egroup. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. RE: Consolidate for the walls of a padded cell. 2. RE: Ask Me Anything on Grant proposals and project applications 3. RE: Ask Me Anything on Grant proposals and project applications 4. Job Post: Artefact Programme Coordinator – Antarctic Heritage Trust, New Zealand, 2yr Fixed term ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1.From: Robin Hodgson Posted: Sunday December 8, 2024 7:38 AM Subject: RE: Consolidate for the walls of a padded cell. Message: Thank you so much Yvonne for what I found to be such a clear and insightful description of what is going on in these omnipresent materials, anything containing Phthalates, something I'd like to distance myself from (oh yeah, I do believe in the "tooth fairy" as well)! Thanks and wishing you all the best for your research, and hit me up if I could ever assist with mechanical devices to aid your necessary work. regards, Robin ------------------------------ Robin Hodgson Owner RH Conservation Engineering Flinders VIC ------------------------------ ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 12-07-2024 13:56 From: Yvonne Shashoua Subject: Consolidate for the walls of a padded cell. Hi Katie, My PhD research investigated the most frequent degradation pathway for plasticized PVC, its symptoms and how to slow the process. To manufacture PVC for sheeting or waterproof coatings for textiles including leatherette, PVC polymer in suspension is blended with up to 50% by weight of plasticizer. Phthalate plasticizers have been widely used since the 1950s. They are not chemically bound to the polymer but held with weak physical bonds between the polymer chains. With time they diffuse out of these amorphous areas because the plasticizer concentration is lower in the air than in the plastic. The PVC coating then shrinks as the polymer chains close up. If phthalates have been used, they also have a role as antioxidants, so when they migrate out, the PVC polymer oxidizes and yellows. It is often suggested that the plasticizer can be reintroduced but that is only a short-term solution because the original amorphous areas are lost with time ie the plasticizer is homeless. If you wish to create a cosmetic, non-reversible treatment to soften the PVC, a series of products for the automotive industry known as 'vinyl makeup sprays' that can be applied and buffed will reintroduce plasticizer, colour and gloss. I cannot suggest an effective, long term consolidant because PVC is insoluble in most usual solvents and therefore difficult to adhere to. Attaching a sheet of polyester such as Mylar to the flaking walls will prevent flakes falling, contact with visitors, will not accelerate degradation and is reversible. Yvonne Shashoua Research Professor, National Museum of Denmark YSH(at)natmus.dk Original Message: Sent: 12/5/2024 10:16:00 AM From: George Schwartz Subject: RE: Consolidate for the walls of a padded cell. Practical answers are urgently needed on this conservation topic, both for plasticized fabrics resembling leather and for objects coated with "rubberized" grips and handles. Below is a brief result ChatGPT ( I know I'll be taken to task for using it ) after several prompts and challenges I made. You will find the references interesting, perhaps more valuable than the article itself: Good luck! George Searched 3 sites Issue Overview: The degradation of plastic and plasticized materials, particularly vinyl and synthetic coatings, is primarily due to the migration and breakdown of plasticizers and stabilizers. This process renders materials sticky or brittle over time, leading to significant challenges in conservation and archival storage. Causes of Deterioration: Plasticizer Migration: Plasticizers, which give flexibility to PVC and other plastics, tend to migrate over time. They move from the internal structure of the plastic to the surface, causing stickiness. Environmental factors like heat and humidity accelerate this process, especially in confined spaces or poorly ventilated storage Heritage Science <https://heritagesciencejournal.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40494-020-00466-0> Encyclopedia MDPI <https://encyclopedia.pub/entry/52884> . Oxidation and Hydrolysis: These chemical reactions with oxygen and water vapor contribute to the embrittlement and crumbling of polymers. Increased humidity and UV exposure exacerbate hydrolytic degradation Encyclopedia MDPI <https://encyclopedia.pub/entry/52884> Canada <https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/conservation-preservation-publications/canadian-conservation-institute-notes/care-rubber-plastic.html> . Chemical Reactions with Surroundings: Interaction with materials such as acid-free paper or PET can either slow down or hasten degradation. Proper wrapping (e.g., with archival-grade tissue) helps minimize further damage by controlling these reactions Heritage Science <https://heritagesciencejournal.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40494-020-00466-0> . Conservation Strategies: Controlled Storage Environment: Maintain low humidity and stable temperatures. Using desiccants or molecular sieves in storage environments can help absorb volatile compounds and delay deterioration Heritage Science <https://heritagesciencejournal.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40494-020-00466-0> Canada <https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/conservation-preservation-publications/canadian-conservation-institute-notes/care-rubber-plastic.html> . Isolation and Encapsulation: Encasing items in materials that do not react with plasticizers, such as inert enclosures or glass displays, slows migration. Avoid storing plastics directly against materials like wood or certain textiles Canada <https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/conservation-preservation-publications/canadian-conservation-institute-notes/care-rubber-plastic.html> . Cleaning and Surface Treatment: Techniques like gentle wiping with non-reactive solvents can remove surface stickiness without causing further degradation. However, treatment should be minimal to avoid disturbing the remaining structure Heritage Science <https://heritagesciencejournal.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40494-020-00466-0> . Future Directions: Further research into stabilization treatments, such as reintroducing compatible plasticizers or developing polymer stabilization coatings, could provide long-term preservation solutions Encyclopedia MDPI <https://encyclopedia.pub/entry/52884> . This area of conservation requires careful material analysis and customized treatment approaches based on each object's composition and environmental history. ------------------------------ George Schwartz Principal, Senior Conservator ConservArt, Inc. Boca Raton FL [email protected] <[email protected]> Chair CIPP 2011-2013 Conservators in Private Practice ------------------------------ Original Message: Sent: 12-04-2024 08:38 From: Katie Proctor Subject: Consolidate for the walls of a padded cell. I have recently been asked how to consolidate the walls of a padded cell at a local museum. The walls are made from a polythene or polyurethane covered in vinyl. The materials has started to crack and flake. Can anyone suggest a consolidate that may be used? The padded cell is usually open for people to enter and walk around in, but it has been closed off for the moment. Ideally the museum would like to open this back up for visitors. Thank you, Katie. ------------------------------ Katie Proctor Conservator West Yorkshire Archive Service Wakefield ------------------------------ 2.From: M. Susan Barger Posted: Sunday December 8, 2024 7:10 PM Subject: RE: Ask Me Anything on Grant proposals and project applications Message: I am afraid that I published some jibberish in my last post. The Conserv Community AMA on Grant Proposals and Project Applications features Christopher Cameron of Sustainable Conservation. You can find the posting for the AMA in the Conserv Community here <https://community.conserv.io/c/ama-s/ama-on-grant-proposals-and-project-applications>. Susan ------------------------------ M. Susan Barger, PhD [email protected] Santa Fe NM ------------------------------ ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 12-06-2024 16:58 From: M. Susan Barger Subject: Ask Me Anything on Grant proposals and project applications 🖊️💸📝 At Conserv, we have scheduled the last AMA (Ask Me Anything) of the year on Grant Proposals and Project Applications with <mention-react data-sgid="BAh7CEkiCGdpZAY6BkVUSSI7Z2lkOi8vanVtcHN0YXJ0LWFwcC9Db21tdW5pdHlNZW1iZXIvNjIwNTI2Nj9leHBpcmVzX2luBjsAVEkiDHB1cnBvc2UGOwBUSSIUcmljaF90ZXh0X2ZpZWxkBjsAVEkiD2V4cGlyZXNfYXQGOwBUMA==--38a29427479616fc2d706caff1c1c0f46a22f9b2"></mention-react> of Sustainable Conservation <https://www.lesscarbonmoreculture.com/>! The way this works is that you have up until 1pm ET on December 17th to type your questions as a reply to this post. Christopher will be logged into the community for an hour starting at that time to type replies to your questions. You do not have to be present while he is doing this as you and everyone else will be able to see the answers at any time following the AMA. Go ahead and start asking your specific questions now 🏁🐎. BONUS points if you ask good general questions that you think may benefit the entire community (even if you think you may know the answer)! If you have a question, you would like posted anonymously, let me know. Susan ------------------------------ M. Susan Barger, PhD Conserv Community Board [email protected] <[email protected]> Santa Fe NM ------------------------------ 3.From: M. Susan Barger Posted: Sunday December 8, 2024 7:10 PM Subject: RE: Ask Me Anything on Grant proposals and project applications Message: Carmen, I will be happy to post this on your behalf. Susan ------------------------------ M. Susan Barger, PhD [email protected] Santa Fe NM ------------------------------ ------------------------------------------- Original Message: Sent: 12-07-2024 07:47 From: Carmen Kramer Subject: Ask Me Anything on Grant proposals and project applications Hi Susan, Thank you for your question invite! What is the best source of information for finding grants for local historical societies? Carmen Kramer President CMI MicroClimates, Inc. Inverness FL ------------------------------ Carmen Kramer President Custom Manufacturing, Inc. Inverness FL ------------------------------ Original Message: Sent: 12-06-2024 16:58 From: M. Susan Barger Subject: Ask Me Anything on Grant proposals and project applications 🖊️💸📝 At Conserv, we have scheduled the last AMA (Ask Me Anything) of the year on Grant Proposals and Project Applications with <mention-react data-sgid="BAh7CEkiCGdpZAY6BkVUSSI7Z2lkOi8vanVtcHN0YXJ0LWFwcC9Db21tdW5pdHlNZW1iZXIvNjIwNTI2Nj9leHBpcmVzX2luBjsAVEkiDHB1cnBvc2UGOwBUSSIUcmljaF90ZXh0X2ZpZWxkBjsAVEkiD2V4cGlyZXNfYXQGOwBUMA==--38a29427479616fc2d706caff1c1c0f46a22f9b2"></mention-react> of Sustainable Conservation <https://www.lesscarbonmoreculture.com/>! The way this works is that you have up until 1pm ET on December 17th to type your questions as a reply to this post. Christopher will be logged into the community for an hour starting at that time to type replies to your questions. You do not have to be present while he is doing this as you and everyone else will be able to see the answers at any time following the AMA. Go ahead and start asking your specific questions now 🏁🐎. BONUS points if you ask good general questions that you think may benefit the entire community (even if you think you may know the answer)! If you have a question, you would like posted anonymously, let me know. Susan ------------------------------ M. Susan Barger, PhD Conserv Community Board [email protected] <[email protected]> Santa Fe NM ------------------------------ 4.From: Elizabeth Meek Posted: Sunday December 8, 2024 7:10 PM Subject: Job Post: Artefact Programme Coordinator – Antarctic Heritage Trust, New Zealand, 2yr Fixed term Message: Full time, fixed term position (2 years), based in Christchurch, New Zealand, with periodic work in Antarctica. Deadline for Applications: midnight NZDST Sunday 12 January 2025 Background Antarctic Heritage Trust is a New Zealand-based not-for-profit with a vision of 'Inspiring Explorers'. Through its mission to conserve, share and encourage the spirit of exploration the Trust cares for the remarkable Antarctic expedition bases of early explorers including: Captain Robert Falcon Scott, Sir Ernest Shackleton and Sir Edmund Hillary. It shares the legacy of exploration through outreach programmes and encourages the spirit of exploration through exciting expeditions to engage and inspire a new generation of explorers. Built between 1899 and 1957, the five expedition bases are located in the Ross Sea region of Antarctica. Described as amongst the most evocative heritage buildings in the world, four of these sites were listed on the World Monuments Fund list of 100 Most Endangered Sites on Earth before the Trust's intervention and are protected under the Antarctic Treaty system. The expedition bases contain a combined total of approximately 20,000 artefacts consisting of objects made from materials that include timber, leather, paper, glass and metal. Since 2006, the Trust has managed a world leading, long term, staged, international heritage conservation project, the Ross Sea Heritage Restoration Project, to ensure the bases and associated artefact collections remain for the benefit of the international community. It has been described as one of the most exciting conservation projects in the world. Role Objectives The Antarctic Heritage Trust is seeking an experienced objects conservator to plan, manage and implement the annual artefact preservation and conservation programmes for the combined artefact collections associated with the historic sites in the Ross Sea region under the Trust's care. The role is part of a small, dedicated and high performing team including the Building Conservation Programme Manager, the Heritage Manager, and reporting to the General Manager Programmes. Programmes of work are heavily focused on developing and delivering summer Antarctic field seasons but may also involve the delivery of New Zealand-based conservation projects relating to Antarctic artefacts. Input to conservation documentation and reporting, and permit and programme applications form a large part of the role. The successful applicant will be expected to work in the Trust's Christchurch office, with seasonal work in Antarctica subject to passing medical and other requirements. Role requirements The candidate must be entitled to work in Aotearoa/New Zealand (hold New Zealand or Australian Citizenship or Residency), or if international, they must apply for and obtain an appropriate Work Visa (independently, and at own expense). The successful candidate will hold a tertiary qualification in heritage materials conservation (objects or metals in particular) relevant to the social history objects In the AHT collections. A minimum of 2-years recent, post-qualification experience in applied conservation is required. Having English as a first language, or have a high degree of professional fluency will be crucial to be successful in the role. Evidence of English competency may be tested as part of the application process. We would love to hear from you, if you: 1. Have a desire to work as part of a team on a uniquely challenging and world leading heritage project and make a positive difference. 2. Have the ability to think both innovatively and strategically. 3. Thrive in a small team environment, and cope well with a fluid work programme and frequent change. 4. Are self-motivated, systematic and organised with a strong work ethic and drive to succeed. 5. Have a positive outlook, a sense of humour and a "can do" attitude. 6. Have a collaborative mindset with strong networking skills. 7. High level of personal and professional standards. 8. Have the ability to both accept and provide leadership and strategic advice. 9. Are a confident and effective written and verbal communicator. How to apply 1. If you meet the role requirements and the criteria above, please read the full job description here: https://nzaht.org/sustain/work-with-us/ <https://nzaht.org/sustain/work-with-us/> 2. Complete the online application form. Be ready to upload the following information: · Professional Resume/ Curriculum Vitae · Contact details of two professional referees 3. Your application will be confirmed by email with a link to complete a short one way video. If you have any queries about the role please email [email protected] Applications close midnight NZDST Sunday 12 January 2025. Salary: A remuneration and benefits package will be provided in negotiation with the successful candidate. Indicative salary range is NZ$75,000-85,000. ------------------------------ Lizzie Meek Heritage Manager Christchurch ------------------------------ You are subscribed to "Global Conservation Forum (ConsDistList)" as [email protected]. To change your subscriptions, go to http://community.culturalheritage.org/preferences?section=Subscriptions. To unsubscribe from this community discussion, go to http://community.culturalheritage.org/HigherLogic/eGroups/Unsubscribe.aspx?UserKey=d16eaa87-0f69-494b-9f2f-303dbc1222e1&sKey=fab9aa4f27a04c5d876e&GroupKey=757a8f16-505f-4323-8e74-e376757aa9f7.
