Description

Laponite is an alternative to paste to remove the old spine linings from a book with less risk of moisture damage.

Laponite, is a synthetic clay powder which swells to produce a clear, colorless thixotropic gel when dispersed in water. It is used in the conservation of stone, metals, organic materials, ceramics and paintings.  Use of Laponite to remove old water soluble adhesives (such as animal glue or paste) and to soften ingrained dirt to facilitate its removal from stone and ceramics. It has a pH of 9.8 at 2% suspension, gel forms at 2% concentration.

Can be used to create a matt finish to acrylic paints.

To make Gel:

Mix 5% Laponite powder into Deionised Water. Leave to sit in a closed container for a couple of hours stirring every now and then to avoid lumps.

Laponite Material Safety Data Sheets

For 1kg bags go to Conservation Supplies Australia