Sturgeon glue is obtained from the sturgeons´ swim bladders. At present, this glue represents in Germany an essential tool for every conservator of paintings and wooden sculptures. However, little information can be found on investigations into some of its most important properties: Aging, compatibility and reversibility. Moreover, the exact origin and pre-treatment of commercially-available swim bladders is unknown. Results are presented of research into the effects of aging on sturgeon glue and its reversibility, as an insight into these two aspects is essential for its use in conservation. The glue was produced from swim bladders of locally farmed sturgeons. Freshly extracted swim bladders were examined for possibilities of pre-treatment, and effects of these treatments on the subsequently obtained glue investigated. The analysis of the artificially aged glues showed that they no longer dissolved completely in water. Further experiments with commercially acquired swim bladders and a naturally aged glue sheet confirmed these results. Moreover, chemical reactions between glue and certain metals or solvents were observed. The resulting substances do not only reduce the adhesive power of the glue, but are potentially not water-soluble.
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Sturgeon glue is obtained from the sturgeons´ swim bladders. At present, this glue represents in Germany an essential tool for every conservator of paintings and wooden sculptures. However, little information can be found on investigations into some of its most important properties: Aging, compatibility and reversibility. Moreover, the exact origin and pre-treatment of commercially-available swim bladders is unknown. Results are presented of research into the effects of aging on sturgeon glue an...
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