"Arsenic in taxidermy collections" by Marte et al (2006)

Marte, F.; Péquignot, A.; Von Endt, D.; “Arsenic in taxidermy collections: history, detection and management”, Collection Forum 21 (1–2) (2006) 143–150

PDF

Abstract:  

An historical review of taxidermy treatments shows that arsenic has been used in the preparation and conservation of specimens from the 18th century until recent times. Two spot tests for arsenic detection have been tested and compared: the Weber’s test and a kit developed by Macherey-Nagel. Stuffed birds from the Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris and standard arsenical solutions were spot tested and results compared with those using Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry (ICPMS). The spot tests compared well to the results using expensive equipment, are freely available, inexpensive and provide an adequate level of detection down to 20 ppm. All specimens should be monitored even those that test negative first time round. Institutions should be responsible for monitoring levels of arsenic in collections, use appropriate protection when handling all specimens and regularly update health and safety records.

And in the same number:
Péquignot, A.; Tumosa, Ch.;Von Endt, D.; “The effects of tanning and fixing processes on the properties of taxidermy skins”, Collection Forum 21 (1–2) (2006) 133–142

PDF

Abstract: 
The effect of different tanning and fixing processes on the mechanical properties of taxidermy skins was investigated using a screw driven tensile machine. Tanning treatments were potash alum powder, salt and a bath (salt, potash alum, and water) used at the Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle in Paris. Fixing was with formalin or alcohols (methanol, ethanol, and 2-propanol). Stress vs strain plots using results from air-dried skin as control show that air dried skins are least flexible, squirrel skins are significantly stiffer than deer skins but that all the skins tested show elastic properties, except skins fixed in formalin. The MNHN bath produces stronger and more flexible treatments than using potash alum or salt powder on their own. There were no significant differences between ethanol and 2-propanol treated skins at similar concentrations but methanol, ethanol and 2-propanol have increasing flexibility. Increasing ethanol concentration makes the skin more flexible. Even small amounts of formalin increase flexibility and large amounts of formalin are not needed to make a useful skin for taxidermy. Differences of bonding between collagen fibbers in the skins account for the differing mechanical properties and suggest ethanol is better than formaldehyde for future preparations. Knowledge of preparation technique is vital when considering future conservation strategies.