Improving the surface cleaning of water sensitive oil paint by use of alternative application methods

This study investigates the use of an ultrasonic mister and hydrophobization with a silicone solvent barrier for the surface cleaning of water sensitive oil paints. Details are presented regarding the reconstruction of water sensitive paints through the growth of epsomite crystals on contemporary Winsor and Newton (W&N) oil paints via exposure to sulphuric gases, using samples that had been previously artificially aged and soiled. These samples were subsequently used for surface cleaning evaluations, specifically tailored to water sensitive oil paints. A number of aqueous solutions were tested with different application methods, including swabs and application with an ultrasonic mister in combinations with a brush and Evolon® tissue. Additionally, gels prepared with aqueous based solutions were tested with and without prior hydrophobization of the surface with silicone solvent cyclomethicone D5. The application of aqueous solutions with the mister were found to decisively reduce pigment removal from the water sensitive paints when compared to swab application. It was also found that the use of a cyclomethicone D5 solvent barrier reduces pigment removal during spreadable gel cleaning.