STABILIZATION AND TREATMENT OF CORRODED GLASS OBJECTS DISPLAYED IN THE MUSEUM OF JORDANIAN HERITAGE/JORDAN

Abstract

A great collection of glass objects of different typology and colours has been displayed in the museum of Jordanian heritage, Yarmouk University in Jordan since 1988. Four glasses of this collection represent a special case; they appear to be the most decayed and completely corroded objects. As proved by EDX analysis, the multi corrosion layers were found to be completely decomposed. SEM examination shows the outer crusts seem to be inhomogeneous pitted, curviplanar, surface-planar and highly fractured forms. Furthermore, backscattered electron images revealed the inner surfaces appear to be altered and lose its glassy nature. The treatment strategy of these objects depends firstly on stabilizing the corrosion process and the expected devitrification chemically, through applying chemical inhibitors that have ability to arrest the continuity of corrosion reactions and prevent further damage of the original glass. Second, by consolidation of both the corroded layers and their underlying glass core, to stabilize them physically.A compatible preventive conservation plane that recommended for displaying the whole glass collection in the museum is established.