Plasticization and forming of misshapen birch-bark artifacts using solvent vapours

Abstract

The plasticization and forming of birch-bark artifacts is discussed in light of the unique chemical and physical properties of the outer bark of the North American species of white birch, Betula papyrifera Marsh. Preliminary studies have shown that prolonged exposure to organic solvent vapours readily softens and relaxes birch bark to allow forming without significant discoloration of the bark surface. As a means of restoring misshapen birch-bark artifacts, prolonged exposure to solvent vapours possesses a number of advantages which render it a viable alternative to traditional steam-forming methods.