Improving the Final Atmospheric Seal of Conserved Archaeological Iron from Marine Sites: A Case Study of Cannon Conservation in Louisiana
摘要
The conservation of iron artifacts from marine archaeological sites faces persistent challenges due to post-recovery electrochemical corrosion. This study investigates the efficacy of a novel conservation treatment that combines microcrystalline wax with a paint overlay, aiming to improve the final atmospheric seal of conserved iron artifacts. The research was conducted at the Conservation Research Laboratory (CRL) at Texas A&M University, involving the treatment of two historically significant cannons with this dual-layer method. The cannons were exposed to controlled yet rigorous environmental conditions to test the durability and protective quality of the treatment. The findings indicate that the combined use of microcrystalline wax and paint significantly enhances corrosion resistance while maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of the artifacts under various climatic exposures. This paper discusses the experimental procedures, the resulting data, and the practical implications of this treatment, advocating for its application in both museum settings and outdoor displays. The study contributes a substantial advancement to conservation practices by offering a reversible and effective solution that upholds the historical value of the artifacts while extending their lifespan.