Hook and loop fasteners: an examination of their use in textile conservation and of the degradation of their component materials

Abstract

Hook and loop fasteners are commonly used in textile conservation to hang large, heavy,
and flat textiles for display. They are increasingly finding other uses in varied forms of textile
mounting and storage. Concerns have been raised regarding the chemical stability of hook
and loop fasteners, and whether they pose a risk to artefacts in their vicinity. This project
surveys current usage of hook and loop fasteners in textile conservation and compares it to
a past survey to identify changes over time. Following the identification of commonly used
hook and loop fastener products, these undergo materials analysis using Fourier Transform
Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, Oddy testing, and measurement of pH by aqueous extraction
before and after artificial aging. Through this testing process, the products are found to pose
a low risk when used to display artefacts. Recommendations are made to further decrease
this risk to acceptable levels within textile conservation.