Abstract

The main causes of deterioration of leather are reviewed, particularly with reference to museums and other heritage collections. Damage caused by bacteria, fungi, insects and vertebrates is described, as are the methods of eradication. Physical damage arising from the hygroscopic nature of leather and other skin products is discussed. The factors leading to the type of chemical decay termed red rot are analysed and the role of oxidation and hydrolysis is considered. The final section deals briefly with the treatment of chemically degraded leather with aluminium alkoxide.