Preparation of Artist’s Canvases: Factors That Affect Adhesion Between Ground and Canvas

Ackroyd, P. and Young, C. (1999) Preparation of Artist’s Canvases: Factors That Affect Adhesion Between Ground and Canvas. In: 12th Triennial Meeting, ICOM Committee for Conservation, Lyon, France, 29 Aug - 3 Sept 1999, pp. 265-270. ISBN 9781873936924

Abstract

The aim of these study is to investigate the adhesion between artists' canvas and the priming layers in order to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of flaking. Fresh samples were prepared from linen canvas cut from the warp and weft directions, with applications of warm liquid or cold gel size, and oil or aqueous emulsion grounds. The samples were heat aged and subjected to uniaxial shear and peel tests at 17, 55, 75 and 85 RH (20-22°C). Results showed that shear strengths were higher in the weft than in the warp direction, indicating that the woven structure of the canvas may play a prominent role in delamination of the ground from the support. Cohesion within the aqueous emulsion ground was dramatically reduced between 75 and 85 RH. Warm sizing produced more reliable bonds than cold gel applications. Preliminary results suggested that cold sizing may affect adhesion properties at 17 and 85 RH.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Young, Professor Christina
• Authors: Ackroyd, P., and Young, C.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Culture and Creative Arts > History of Art
• ISBN: 9781873936924