white efflorescence on 19th century wax models

[ajvandam]

In our collection we have a large number of wax models made in the German atelier of Friedrich Ziegler in the second half on the 19th century. Particularly a set of models representing the development of the human external genitals in the fetal stage show a relatively fast growing mould-like efflorescence (by the way, we already established that it is not a mould). Some literature is speaking about degradation of the wax causing fatty acids to migrate to the surface. Also, metal pigments and/or chalk powder that could be present in the atelier's secret wax recipe, might play a role in the degradation.
I have two questions:
Is there more information about the chemical mechanism of this phenomenon and secondly, are there ways (passive/active conservation) to slow down this process? All thougths and suggestions are welcomed.

Andries J. van Dam
Conservator Museum of Anatomy, Leiden University Medical Centre
Webmaster http://www.icom-cc.org

[ceong]

In efflorescence (which signifies "to blossom out" in French) is the movement of a salt to the surface of a permeable material, where it shapes a covering. The basic procedure includes the dissolving of an inside held salt in water, or every so often in another dissolvable.. I would like to explain about best online essay writing services. This service is helps to students who are in struggle with essay.