University of Akron’s Innovative Adhesive: A Game-Changer in Art Conservation!

Flour paste, wax resin, and synthetic adhesives have long been used to conserve artwork, particularly when attaching an old canvas to a new one. Each of these materials has its downsides. Flour paste can dry out, while wax can alter colors. The synthetic adhesive that emerged in the 1970s, known as BEVA 371, faced its challenges too after production of one key ingredient ended in 2007.

To address these issues, researchers at the University of Akron created a new adhesive: BEVA 371 Akron. This formulation is now hailed as a game changer within the art conservation community.

Dean Yoder from the Cleveland Museum of Art explained that earlier methods left conservators uneasy. A new solution was essential to protect vulnerable paintings while ensuring they could be restored again in the future if needed.

The research team faced numerous hurdles in finding the right balance for their new adhesive. It had to be sticky enough without melting away, and importantly, it needed to be reversible for future conservation efforts. Ali Dhinojwala, a professor leading the project, noted the importance of sourcing readily available materials. They began by testing different formulations and gathering feedback from over half a dozen museums.

The journey took just four years, a short duration for such endeavors. Funded by the Getty Foundation, the goal was to make this innovative adhesive widely available to conservation groups without a profit motive.

Yoder took the leap by using the new adhesive on a significant piece—“A Scientist Seated at a Desk by Candlelight,” an oil painting from 1755. His excitement highlighted the broader implications for the art world, particularly in the face of global conflicts where artworks may be damaged.

McGlinchey, another project leader, reflected on the earlier struggles conservators faced. The previous heating method was cumbersome and risky for heat-sensitive pieces. The new BEVA 371 Akron adhesive offers a more user-friendly alternative, functioning effectively at lower temperatures. This allows conservators greater control over the bonding process, making conservation efforts significantly more straightforward.

Dhinojwala emphasized the potential of their work to put Akron on the map for innovation, aside from its traditional ties to tires and sports. He believes that this kind of advancement benefits not just their university but the entire region and encourages a culture of innovation.

Experts agree that this new adhesive could play a crucial role in conserving artworks worldwide, especially as conflicts continue to threaten cultural heritage. With the art community’s trust in this innovation, BEVA 371 Akron marks a bright future for art preservation.

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