Powdered cellulose microblasting: a useful technique for dry-cleaning the reverse side of canvas paintings

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of microblasting with powdered cellulose for the dry-cleaning of canvases. Various surface cleaning tests were conducted by microblasting on the reverse of canvas paintings and the results were compared to those obtained with traditional dry-cleaning techniques using erasers and sponges. To assess cleaning effectiveness and potential changes on the support, the treated surfaces were examined both before and after cleaning using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX), confocal laser microscopy with surface roughness measurements, and spectrophotometry. The results from this comparative evaluation suggest that microblasting with powdered cellulose is a feasible technique for removing soiling on canvas and that it does not affect canvas structure or its topography. Furthermore, powdered cellulose leaves fewer particles of residues on the surface after cleaning, and these residues are chemically stable and compatible with the canvas support. Thus, the technique also avoids the potential negative long-term effects of eraser and sponge residues of particles that may remain on the canvas when these traditional systems are used.