[Nhcoll-l] Long term effects of bleaching on fossils

[Leslie L Skibinski]

Hi everyone,

There is a technique that is used to "brighten" color patterns on fossils so that they can be photographed under UV light.  The technique seems to consist of soaking the fossils in a solution of 50%  bleach (sodium hypochlorite) and 50% water for 24 hours.  The fossils are rinsed and then allowed to air dry.

My question is this.  Has there been any research on short and long term effects on fossils that are treated this way?  Any help would be appreciated.



Leslie L. Skibinski
Collection Manager
Paleontological Research Institution
1259 Trumansburg Road
Ithaca, New York  14850

Ph.  (607) 273-6623  ext. 28
Fax:  (607) 273-6620

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