Salt movement in Ancient Egyptian linen - A preliminary report

Studying the reasons why textiles have survived can guide their future preservation. The role of natron and inorganic salts in Ancient Egyptian textiles has recently been analysed. Salt origins are noted and recent work summarised. The techniques of Ion Chromatography (IC), Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM) and x-ray Diffraction and Energy Dispersive x-ray Analysis (EDXA) have been used. ESEM has been used on salt crystallisation in the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Getty Conservation Institute, Los Angeles. The methodology is described and the examination of samples which are specified. The tests are reported and further details are given of the continuing investigation at the University of Sydney of effectiveness of conservation treatments of salt affected textiles.