NCPTT | University of Arizona

Evaluation of Ca(OH)₂ Nano-Particle Treatment of Cordage/Basketry (2011-01)

On December 31, 2011 By Sean Clifford

Figure 4. This image, from the third round of synthesis of nano-particles, shows an agglomeration of particles that occurs upon drying. The SEM image was taken at a working distance of about 7.5mm, 25keV, about 45 mA and 3.50k magnification. Agglomerated particles do not easily dissociate from one another and it becomes difficult to disperse these in cordage. This concentration issue requires that the concentration of the calcium hydroxide in the dispersion is low.

The major goals of this project involved: laboratory set-up; synthesis of Ca(OH) 2 nano- particles; cordage sample acquisition; development of a research design; preliminary testing of solutions and solvents; mechanical and aging studies; analytical characterization; imaging and data collection; and report preparation. The project has demonstrated that aqueous dispersions of calcium hydroxide nano-particles are not an appropriate treatment for archaeological cordage because the cordage swells when treated with water. The study has shown that 2-propanol as a carrier solvent for Calcium hydroxide nano-particles does not swell cordage fibers or inhibit the migration of nano-particles into the matrix, while increasing the pH of the cordage. The results of this funded project suggest that calcium hydroxide nano-particle solutions in isopropyl alcohol is promising as a conservation treatment for archaeological cordage. This study has also confirms that storage that offers the most confinement and immobilization will further reduce damage from handling.

Morgan and Simon Co-Host Advancing Remote Sensing Technology in the Discovery, Analysis, and Preservation of Cultural Resources

On June 15, 2007 By NCPTT

Evaluation of Ca(OH)2 Nano-Particle Treatment of Cordage/Basketry (2011-01)

Morgan and Simon Co-Host Advancing Remote Sensing Technology in the Discovery, Analysis, and Preservation of Cultural Resources

Categories

Evaluation of Ca(OH)₂ Nano-Particle Treatment of Cordage/Basketry (2011-01)