Aimed at conservators who do not always have a scientific background, this book presents the material science necessary to understand the properties, deterioration and investigation of textile artefacts. It also aids understanding of the chemical processes during various treatments, such as cleaning, humidification, drying, and disinfestation.

The many practical examples and case studies illustrate the utility of the relatively large chemical introduction and the essential chemical information which is included. The case studies, many illustrated in colour, range from the treatment of the Ghandis' clothes, high-altitude flying suits and a Mary Quant raincoat, to the Hungarian Coronation Mantle. The book offers comprehensive coverage of the subject by a chemist and a conservator; is illustrated with many practical examples and case studies; and, provides textile conservators with necessary chemical knowledge.

Preface
Introduction
Acknowledgements
Section 1 Fibres
Dyes
Finishes
Binding media
Metal threads
Case histories
Section 2 Soiling on historic textiles
Solvents and solubility
Solvent cleaning of historic textiles
Water
Wet cleaning
Cleaning by chemical reactions
Stain removal
Cleaning of metal threads
Case histories
Section 3 Humidification
Drying and freeze drying
Disinfestation and disinfection
Adhesives and consolidants
Storage and display materials
Case histories
Section 4 Methods of investigation used in textile conservation
Investigation of metal threads
Case histories