Epoxy Resins in Stone Conservation

This book presents a review of research on the use of epoxy
resins as consolidants for sculpture and buildings. It deals with both the
methods and materials used by conservators, focusing on a detailed chemistry of
the materials as well as the practical methods of application.



Epoxy resins have been widely used as structural adhesives to repair cracks in
commercial and historic buildings, but the application of this technology to
the stabilization of fragile stone has generally failed. However, the proper
formulation of epoxy systems with solvents has solved problems of viscosity, penetration,
crust formation, and discoloration, leading to two different schools of
treatment detailed in the publication. Conservators in Europe have concentrated
on the treatment of statuary and isolated sections of structures, with alcohol
solutions of the resins maintained in contact with the surface for a period of
time in order to get deep penetration. In the United States, treatment has
focused on stabilizing entire structures or major portions of buildings by
spraying them with acetone solutions of epoxy resins.



The various techniques of application are discussed and evaluated. The book
seeks to provide an expanded inventory of these different techniques allowing
the conservator to make informed judgments.