Abstract
The removal of ink stains from elephant ivory and related materials can present an intractable problem for the conservator. This research evaluates laser energy as a tool for ivory conservation and highlights the differences between removing stains that penetrate the substrate, as opposed to surface accretions, using a range of laser wavelengths. Samples of ink-stained ivory were prepared and treated with wavelengths ranging from the infrared to the far UV in order to remove ink staining. Different effects were observed at different regions of the spectrum and with different laser types (Nd:YAG, KrF excimer, ArF excimer, OPO, etc.) with the most successful removal of ink occurring in the visible range. Furthermore, there appears to be a relationship between wavelength in the visible range and the color of the ink removed, which correlates to the absorption spectra for a given ink. The results of these experiments will be discussed along with the possible mechanisms involved and some of the surface analytical techniques employed to evaluate the effectiveness of cleaning.
Published Version
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