Assessment of conservation processes of wet archaeological textiles

In this thesis, the conservation processes of wet obtained textile artifacts are discussed. Knowing the components of textile fibers is of primary importance in conservation processes. First of all, the properties of textile raw materials and fibers were defined. Then, the archaeological fibers were classified. Textile fibers are divided into two main groups as natural and synthetic fibers. Wet archaeological textile artifacts are in the vegetable (cellulosic) and animal (protein) fibers class in the natural fiber group. As a result of the analyses, it is comprehended that the wet archaeological textile artifacts are produced from fibers such as linen, hemp, jute, cotton, sisal, manila, ramie, silk, goat hair and wool. After classification, the first production methods of textile and rope were evaluated technologically. The deterioration of wet archaeological textile artifacts in underwater environment was examined. As a result of this examination, the deteriorations were divided into three categories as physical, chemical and biological deteriorations. Textile artifacts turn into a structurally unstable forms in underwater conditions. Therefore, emergency intervention treatments are needed from the moment of excavation. These interventions are of primary importance for the process of stabilizing the unstable artifacts. Within the context of this thesis, the lifting of the wet archaeological textile from the excavation area, the first conservation treatment, its transportation to the conservation laboratory for full conservation, the conservation processes in the laboratory and the preventive conservation works were evaluated. Conservation processes such as cleaning, desalination, drying methods, consolidation methods (PEG impregnation, sugar impregnation, silicone oil impregnation and impregnation with other polymers) were supported by literature review and examples from past and current conservation treatment methods. Within the context of preventive conservation works, what should be the standard values of the wet archaeological textiles whose conservation was completed, and the environmental factors (temperature, light, relative humidity) in their exhibitions, storage, museums / laboratories were evaluated. In addition, the packaging methods of wet archaeological textiles for storage were also examined.