Regalrez in Furniture Conservation

Abstract

Regalrez 1094 is a hydrocarbon, low-molecular resin, soluble in aliphatic and aromatic solvents. When the elastomer Kraton G1650 and hindered amine light stabilizer Tinuvin 292 are added, it remains stable even after extensive aging. Regalrez 1094 is used on paintings for the saturation of somewhat opaque areas and as a varnish. A test on furniture showed that it has the capacity to saturate very degraded finishes. Unfortunately a finish of Regalrez 1094 becomes tacky when handled. Of the three grades of Regalrez with a higher glasstransition temperature, Regalrez 1126 (Tg, 65°C) was tested. It saturates degraded finishes just as well as Regalrez 1094 does, and it does not get tacky when handled. Regalrez 1126 produces a very smooth varnish, and it can be used in a wax-resin finish. Finally, it is possible to cover Regalrez 1126 with a more polar finish. This capability enables conservators to keep a degraded finish on furniture, saturate it with Regalrez 1126, and finish it with materials like shellac or Paraloid B-72. Unfortunately, when a coat of wax is applied on top of any of the grades of Regalrez discussed here, the Regalrez immediately dissolves in the solvents present in paste wax formulations. As a top finish, therefore, Regalrez can best be used in museum settings, where the care of furniture is controlled. However, for the saturation of degraded finishes, both 1094 and 1126 can be used in a museum setting as well as in private collections.