Pressure-sensitive Tape Removal in Paper Conservation: A Review

ABSTRACT The three treatment phases for pressure-sensitive tape removal included in this review are: removal of the carrier, adhesive removal from the paper surface, and adhesive removal from the paper interior. The latter process requires organic solvents. Solvent selection via the Teas chart or Zumbühl’s system are compared. Teas triangular chart supports the calculation of solvent mixtures with ideal mixing properties; Zumbühl’s bi-axial parametrization system supports solvent selection when solvent mixtures exhibit non-ideal behaviour and highlights vapour pressure as the solvent selection criterion. Strategies for working with solvents include a discussion of solvent mixtures and their application and the introduction of a suction disk design. Effects and common side effects of treatment are presented with examples. This review supports novices and practitioners in their treatment choices when dealing with the removal of pressure-sensitive tapes.