AIC's 53rd Annual Meeting

This study investigates characteristics of three cellulose ethers in the search for a stronger solvent based adhesive to add to the options available to paper conservators. Cellulose ethers are available in various polymer chain lengths (corresponding to strength), can be water and/or solvent soluble, and often have desirable aging properties. Two of the most widely used cellulose ethers in paper conservation are methylcellulose (Methocel) and hydroxypropyl cellulose (Klucel). This research compares commonly used Methocel A4M (water soluble, long polymer chain) and Klucel G (water/solvent soluble, short polymer chain), with overlooked Klucel M (water/solvent soluble, long polymer chain). Klucel M has the potential to be a crucial tool in the toolbox of paper conservators, as it has a similar polymer chain length and adhesive strength to Methocel A4M, but has the advantage of being soluble in solvent, like the much shorter length and weaker adhesive Klucel G. While older research indicated that Klucel M is inappropriate for long term use with collections, more recent research has indicated that it could be an acceptable option. Using analytical techniques including accelerated aging, colorimetry and UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy, size-exclusion chromatography, Oddy testing, and PAT testing, this study compares the adhesives Methocel A4M, Klucel G, and Klucel M and offers case studies for the use of Klucel M.