Investigation of long term storage solutions for rubber garments

A collection of 1980s Mexican rubberised cotton garments was investigated in order to assess conservation treatment options, to improve their long term storage conditions and to investigate the origin of the strong odour associated with the garments. Chemical and mechanical deterioration of the rubber was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Recommendations for remedial conservation were made after re-shaping tests using the application of gentle heat. Passive diffusion tube sampling was carried out to assess the levels of acids, aldehydes and VOCs emitted fromthe garments. Very high concentrations of acetic acid off-gassing were confirmed and deemed a risk to the cotton fabric. Test set-ups in sealed ambient and anoxic conditions, with and without the inclusion of MicroChamber (R) paper, showed the effectiveness of this pollutant sorbent in reducing acetic acid levels as well as general odour emitted by the garments.