Introduction

The invention is an electro-spun non-woven fabric, coupled with solvent, effective in removing synthetic and natural coatings and varnishes from works of art, such as paintings, sculptures, archaeological finds, cinematographic film.

Technical features

Nowadays, the restoration operations require time, a great deal of attention on the part of the restorer, who must arbitrarily dose the amount of solvent; furthermore, this method often does not allow to obtain a complete removal of the paint, usually making it necessary to repeat the action by applying mechanical stress to the surface and using high amounts of solvent. It also exposes the restorer to the vapors of solvents, even toxic ones, for prolonged times. Gels can also be used, which allow a more controlled and superficial application of the solvent, but are not able to completely remove the paint in a single application and therefore repeated actions are often necessary.

This method relies on a non-woven fabric for a controlled release of a solvent targeted to be cleaned sensitive surfaces and cultural heritage. The restorer simply places the fabric on the surface to be treated, making it adhere and waiting for a few minutes: in this way the solvent interacts with the layer to be removed, it swells and is incorporated into the fabric itself. At the end of this process, the restorer removes the non-woven fabric from the surface, which remains free of paint without residues.

Possible Applications

The main application is the restoration of cultural heritage assets, such as:

• Paintings
• Sculpture
• Archaeological finds
• Archival material
• Cinematographic films

Advantages

• Less use of solvent, with consequent economic and environmental benefits;
• Simplification and effectiveness of the cleaning system;
• Reduction of the risk of damage to the cultural / artistic asset;
• Limited exposure to solvents;
• Elimination of mechanical actions that could damage the surface of the work of art;
• Controlled release of the solvent which will interact only with the layer to be removed.