Investigating the Degradation of Historical Man-Made Cellulose-Derived Textiles via Accelerated Ageing

Abstract

Cellulose-derived materials, like paper and cellulose acetate, are known to be vulnerable to degradation within museum collections. Studies have been conducted and degradation markers have been identified on these materials. However, the degradation of man-made cellulose-derived fibers in collections is not well understood. This study aims to provide insights into historical cellulose acetate and regenerated cellulose textiles to quantify their physical and chemical changes during degradation using accelerated ageing experiments. Potential physical and chemical markers for degradation are identified, including changes in surface morphology, mass loss, discoloration and changes in spectral bands. These markers can be used to improve understanding of the degradation mechanisms of historical cellulose acetate and regenerated cellulose textiles and guide the development of conservation strategies. These findings have important implications for understanding the stability of man-made cellulosic fibers in museum collections.