The Influence of Temperature on the Application of Cyclododecane in Paper Conservation

Abstract

In paper conservation, cyclododecane (CDD) is commonly used to waterproof water-sensitive inks and paints. In order to apply CDD over thin lines (such as those of drawings or signatures), conservators often use kistkas. While being a useful, convenient tool, the kistka does not always allow for a precise application of CDD. In this study, the influence of the CDD temperature on its tendency to spread through the paper-fibre web and its ability to waterproof water-sensitive materials were assessed. CDD was applied on four types of paper that were considered to be representative. During the tests, the temperature of a regular kistka was precisely controlled through an open-loop phase-control AC regulator. The test series showed that at a temperature of approximately 70°C, CDD is very easy to apply precisely, yet its waterproofing effects are not very good; at approximately 90°C, CDD is excellent at waterproofing, but is very difficult to apply precisely. While the ideal temperature may vary depending on the technical requirements of the artefact, it is important to stress that a variation of as little as 5°C has a relevant influence on the applicability and waterproofing efficiency of melted CDD.