Course on removing pressure-sensitive tape

Workshop on the Removal of Pressure-Sensitive Tapes and Tape Stains
Museum Support Center, Smithsonian Institution, Suitland, Maryland
Instructors:  Elissa O'Loughlin and Linda Stiber Morenus
April 16 -19, 2001

Pressure-sensitive tapes, often used to repair tears and losses, may
cause valuable documents and art work to be irreparably stained,
embrittled and cockled.  The aged appearance of such tapes may
completely obscure tonal variations and distort the appearance of
soluble media.  However, removal of pressure-sensitive tapes can be
a complex treatment that may pose risks to the health of both the
worker and the object.

This 5-day course includes both lecture and hands-on sessions using
a range of treatment options for the removal of pressure-sensitive
tapes and the reduction of tape stains.  During the practical
sessions, a range of aged, mock documents will be used to
demonstrate and practice various techniques. Additionally,
participants are encouraged to bring expendable items with tape
and/or tape stains for treatment.

Though the course is primarily designed for practicing conservators,
the introductory lecture will include information relevant to the
work of museum and archival staff who are not practicing paper
conservators.  Those interested in a concise overview of the history
and problems associated with the use of pressure-sensitive tape will
benefit from the introductory lecture. Additional lectures and
practical sessions may be attended by conservators enrolled in the
entire workshop.

The course will include:

    1.  An introductory lecture about the history and technology of
        pressure sensitive tapes from 1928 to the present, including
        descriptions of both rubber-based and acrylic-based
        adhesives.  This lecture will give an overview of the
        problems associated with pressure-sensitive tape use.  The
        lecture may be attended by conservators, archivists,
        collections managers etc..

    2.  Identification of tapes, including lecture sessions with
        diagnostic charts and practical sessions with a variety of
        samples.

    3.  Case histories of tape removal projects.

    4.  A review of treatment options employing heat, solvents,
        poultices, suction devices, etc..

    5.  Practical sessions on the treatment of a selection of
        naturally and artificially aged samples

    6.  Experimental treatments on mock documents and expendable
    items

The necessary range of small tools and solvents will be provided;
however, participants are encouraged to bring a kit of specialized
tools they have found useful.

Limit for introductory lecture: 70
Complimentary refreshments provided
Cost: $15.00
Registration deadline April 6th

Limit for practical sessions and additional lectures: 12
Lunch provided
Cost: $400.00
Interested applicants should apply by March 23rd

For further information and registration materials, please contact

    Mary Studt
    studtm [at] scmre__si__edu
    301-238-3700 x149

Mary Studt
Archives Conservator
Smithsonian Center for Materials Research and Education
Smithsonian Institution


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 14:36
                Distributed: Wednesday, January 3, 2001
                       Message Id: cdl-14-36-015
                                  ***