Laminated Posters: Conservation Pilot Treatment at National Library of Ireland

The National Library of Ireland has a large collection of ephemera dating from the formation of the Irish State (1916-1922). To prepare for the anniversary of this major historical event, the Library's Conservation Department carried out a survey of the collection and prioritised treatments. Ten large curfew proclamations included in the survey were laminated with a flexible plastic film, which was yellowing, emitting a strong smell, and modifying the original appearance of the documents. Removal of the lamination was considered for reasons of chemical stability, historic integrity, and aesthetic appreciation.

This paper relates the process undertaken to identify the film material and its chemical properties and the development and testing of a treatment protocol. Through literature review, micro-chemical testing, visual and physical examination, and FTIR analysis, the laminate film was identified as plasticised PVC. Treatment in acetone solvent vapour chamber removed the film and the poster was washed and lined. The pros and cons of this interventive treatment for non-unique printed material are considered in the context of health and safety concerns, digitisation and long-term storage and access.