Printing plates

The British Library holds a large number of copper and steel
printing plates and steel dies in its collections.  We are naturally
concerned to protect the engraved surfaces from corrosion, and we
have been advised to keep the relative humidity of the steel plates
below 30% to prevent rust.  We have also been advised to protect the
plates by coating them with Japan wax.  Is anybody familiar with
this substance--its ease of application and removal, ageing
properties etc?

Dr Barry Knight
Head of Conservation Research
The British Library
96 Euston Road
London NW1 2DB
+44 20 7412 7229
Fax: +44 20 7412 7658


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 19:59
                 Distributed: Wednesday, June 14, 2006
                       Message Id: cdl-19-59-022
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