Removing rubber latex from rugs

This request is posted on behalf of a private textile conservator:

    Carol Cains
    31 Herbert Crescent
    Ainslie, ACT 2602, Australia.
    +61 6 2487374.

Carol has 6 rugs, each approximately 3m x 2.5m which are hand woven
and have a backing of rubber latex plus water emulsion.  The backing
was unevenly applied by hand and is still malleable.  The rubber is
leaching through to the surface of the rugs causing discolouration
and attracting dirt (the rugs are used on the floor of public
areas).  She would appreciate advice or reference to relevant
literature on how to completely remove the backings.  Due to the
size of the rugs solvent treatment would be rather difficult.

Colin Pearson
University of Canberra

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                  Conservation DistList Instance 9:48
                 Distributed: Monday, December 11, 1995
                        Message Id: cdl-9-48-009
                                  ***