It also outlines several options for coatings that deter rusting. This Note describes ways to identify and store actively corroding iron, and explains how to clean and store stable iron. Museums should establish a program of cleaning and care to extend the life of iron objects. (For more detailed information, consult Selwyn 2004. If an object has been stored outside or has been buried, it will likely contain water-soluble salts. transfers from the skin), or simply exposed to certain environments(e.g. Salts are introduced when an object is used(e.g. Rust formation is accelerated by water-soluble salts, especially salts containing chloride ions (such as sodium chloride) or sulphate ions (such as calcium sulphate). Uneven corrosion permits water and oxygen to penetrate to the underlying metal surface, where further corrosion will occur. An evenly distributed layer of rust affords some protection to the object irregularly rusted surfaces offer less protection. Rusting is slow in clean dry air, more rapid in humid air, and more rapid still when the metal surface is covered with a thin film of water. That is, a layer of corrosion, or rust, is formed. The natural tendency of iron to rust -sometimes rapidly - means that close monitoring and consistent care are very important in the preservation of iron artifacts.īare surfaces of iron oxidize rapidly. Care of iron must therefore take into account the care of associated materials. Because iron is usually coated, the nature and condition of the coating, be it paint, oil, or lacquer, is a major concern. Iron is often found associated with other materials such as wood, plastics, textiles, leather, or other metals. Iron in the form of cast iron, wrought iron, or steel is abundant in museum collections. ( PDF Version, 157 KB) CCI Note 9/6 is part of CCI Notes Series 9 (Metals) Introduction
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