Polish L-guard sword: restoration project

G. McCormack · 27th March 2012, 06:59 PM

Guys, Don't freak out too much on Evgeny here.

Iron/Steel objects are very challenging. In a conservation lab setting, washing to remove the different chlorides and mechanical cleaning are very typical. The only other thing you really can do is then shield the artifact in an argon-filled bag or container.

Unfortunately, the current research doesn't seem to favor the tannin approach.

Slapping some oil and 000 steel wool on a blade doesn't 'deactivate' corrosion. It's not so clear cut as that, and with blades this corroded the deep imbedded chlorides and other compounds will blister out as they keep working down.

So, not arguing for or against, but just realize that what Evgeny is doing is not too far off for current recommended treatment of such items.

27th March 2012, 06:59 PM	#23
G. McCormack Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Tallahassee, FL Posts: 131	Guys, Don't freak out too much on Evgeny here. Iron/Steel objects are very challenging. In a conservation lab setting, washing to remove the different chlorides and mechanical cleaning are very typical. The only other thing you really can do is then shield the artifact in an argon-filled bag or container. Unfortunately, the current research doesn't seem to favor the tannin approach. Slapping some oil and 000 steel wool on a blade doesn't 'deactivate' corrosion. It's not so clear cut as that, and with blades this corroded the deep imbedded chlorides and other compounds will blister out as they keep working down. So, not arguing for or against, but just realize that what Evgeny is doing is not too far off for current recommended treatment of such items.