2025/06/12 by Simon Müller, Hossein Rajaei, Ingo Wendt +2 · 1 voice
Arts and Humanities · #Conservation Techniques and Studies #Cultural Heritage Materials Analysis
paper · pdf · doi:10.3897/nhcm.2.153194
openalex publication_date 2025/06/12 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/11
Microscope slide labels hold valuable scientific information within natural history collections, making their long-term preservation crucial. This study tests Paraloid B-72 as a potential protective coating, offering a quick and simple method to safeguard these labels against environmental influences such as humidity and light exposure. Various paper types and writing materials were tested with different concentrations of Paraloid B-72 dissolved in ethyl acetate. Our findings indicate that a 20% concentration provides optimal results, maintaining label readability and protection, while minimizing significant issues like bubble formation. Although a two-layer application of a 15% solution provides strong stabilization, it requires extended processing times. This approach presents a method to enhance label longevity, aligning with sustainable preservation practices. Nevertheless, careful application is crucial to prevent adhesion issues during drying, indicating a need for further refinement of the technique.