Surfactants and Acrylic Dispersion Paints: Evaluating Changes Induced by Wet Surface Cleaning Treatments

This paper summarizes recent research on the presence of surfactants on the surface of acrylic dispersion (emulsion) paint films and the impact of wet surface cleaning treatments on them. Empirical and analytical tests used to assess the presence of migrated surfactants to the film surface are described. The risks associated with conservation treatments are not always apparent at the time they are carried out. Findings from recent scientific research are therefore summarized into sections outlining current knowledge on the effects of surfactant removal through conservation treatment and aging and outlining the potential risks of the preservation of migrated surfactant on acrylic dispersion paint films. Surface surfactants are also discussed in the context of artists’ intention, conservation ethics, cleaning efficacy, and the resoiling of cleaned paint films. Areas requiring further research have also been identified.