Removal of synthetic varnishes from sensitive modern paints with innovative surface-attached gels

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Many important artworks produced using synthetic dispersion paints in the 20th century were treated with a layer of varnish after completion as protection against damage. However, thisposes an issue to conservators as these varnishes degrade, for example by oxidation and they become cloudy or yellowed as described in research presented by Theodorakopoulos,2011. This proposal provides a methodology for utilising surface attached gels to remove thin layers of synthetic varnish. It must be considered how to remove varnish whilst protectingthe underlying painting, often of similar chemical composition to the varnish, from chemical or mechanical damage (Keefe et al, 2011).Thin layers of surface attached gels pose a unique solution to this issue providing an alternative physical application of cleaning solution to submersion or application using swabs which can cause damage (Ormsby et al 2003). Furthermore, the unique chemistry of the polymer matrix aids in this purpose (Baglioni, 2013). This solution provides a sensitive and effective technique that is transferable to other industries, such as medicine or electronicengineering.