A new application of HPBCD was published. Leather artifacts in museums, libraries, and storehouses often show signs of deterioration such as warping, cracks, stains, and dust accumulation due to inappropriate conditions. HPBCD can help in consolidating them.
The fragility and weakness of historical, archaeological, and heritage leather artifacts in museums, and libraries due to unsuitable environmental conditions are significant challenges. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of HPBCD in consolidating leather artifacts by examining their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. Vegetable-tanned leather samples were treated with different concentrations of Hydroxypropyl Beta Cyclodextrin and subjected to artificial heat aging. Evaluation methods included digital and scanning electron microscopy, contact angle measurements, mechanical testing, color analysis, pH measurement, and Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Results showed that HPBCD at 1% and 2% concentrations improved chemical stability, surface morphology, color retention, and mechanical properties of the leather samples.
Abdel-Maksoud, G., Nasr, H.ES., Samaha, S.H. et al. Evaluation of the performance of Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin for the consolidation of vegetable-tanned leather artifacts. Heritage Science 12, 188 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40494-024-01294-2