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Abstract:

This is a method for treating insecure paint on curved panels under vacuum (by the usual methods of adhesion under slight pressure, with or without radiant heat). A plastic envelope is constructed round the panel painting and the vacuum formed within. Construction is as follows. First, a sheet of polyethylene, next a sheet of blotting paper, then the painting treated with adhesive, then a sheet of Mylar (polyethylene terephthalate). The final cover membrane is made of P.V.C. or rubber. A hole is made in it to receive the vacuum exhaust, and the edges are taped to the bottom later of polyethylene. Some observations follow on the fact that frequently air is not withdrawn from the centre areas of the painting, resulting in a lack of pressure on certain parts. One way of preventing this might be to use a sheet of fine glass-fibre cloth, though this might impose its texture on certain paintings. G. Thomson