Phase Separation in Heritage Objects Made of Plasticised PVC: the Case of Joseph Beuys Multiples

TL;DR

This study investigates the degradation and phase separation in plasticised PVC heritage objects, combining experimental and computational methods to understand plasticiser migration and develop conservation strategies.

Contribution

It provides a detailed mechanistic understanding of plasticiser migration in PVC using multi-analytical techniques and density functional theory simulations, aiding conservation efforts.

Findings

Plasticiser migration causes surface exudation and phase separation.

NMR spectroscopy effectively studies accelerated plasticiser migration.

Thermodynamic forces drive plasticiser migration and self-association.

Abstract

This work addresses the advanced degradation of plasticised PVC boards, which constitute Joseph Beuys multiples Phosphorus-Cross Sled, focusing on the mechanisms responsible for the extensive exudation of a viscous liquid. A multi-analytical approach combining chromatographic, spectroscopic, microscopic, and mechanical techniques was employed to characterise both the exuded surface layer and the polymer bulk, and to evaluate the consequences of degradation for long-term mechanical behaviour. The experimental results are supported by density functional theory simulations, which indicate a thermodynamic driving force for plasticiser migration towards the PVC surface and its tendency to self-associate. These molecular-level insights provide a mechanistic explanation for the observed migration and exudation phenomena. Overall, the study outlines a coherent deterioration pathway for exudate-covered plasticised PVC. The application of NMR spectroscopy proved to be an efficient method for studying accelerated migration of the plasticiser in PVC, opening the path to the development of non-destructive, in situ preventive conservation tools, supporting the early identification of PVC artefacts or parts of a collection that are at risk of severe phase separation.