Removing New Cellophane Tape (scotch) from a WW2 Map

[Persian Gulf Command]

I have a "salty" WW2 map that was separated along an old fold and the previous owner used cellophane scotch tape to "fix" the problem. The tape appears to be new as it hasn't begun to yellow. Since the paper was already separated I am going to assume that the paper it is fragile below the tape.

 

Is there any way that I can remove this tape while doing as little damage to the paper as possible. I would much rather have this map with the signs of being used in the field than with its modern repair.

 

Thanks in advance for any help!

[earlymb]

You could try to heat the tape with a hairdryer and see if the adhesive will let go?

[BROBS]

heat and being careful are the only ways I believe....

 

but don't get it too hot or blow too much air on it! a gentle use of a heatgun would be best IMO.

 

and it may not work.. I would try to start to lift a corner and if it seems like it's going to rip give it up.

-Brian

[navycollector]

Did you try the hairdryer for removing the tape from the map? I would probably try that first too, but if that doesn't work I was thinking that maybe the opposite getting the map really cold, maybe put in the sealed bag or container and keep in the freezer might make the tape lose it's hold and chip or break off. I've never tried this it's just something that came to mind.

[Shakethetrees]

Neither of the above will work. I am a professional conservator and have found this solution. While metals conservation is my field, I like to learn from other conservators simple tricks that solve problems with different media, as I sometime have objects containing several different materials.

 

There is this solvent called Bestine available over the counter at hobby shops and art supply stores. It was purpose made for removing adhesives from delicate paper.

 

It works best if you open the map and lay it flat, face down. Use a Q-Tip with a non plastic stem. This is important! It will dissolve the plastic and deposit it where it does not need to be.

 

Saturate the backside of the paper behind the tape. Work only a small spot, only an inch at a time. The tape will lift right off. Be patient. It might take several applications, but it works. However it does not remove any staining from the old tape. This is a job for a specialist, and even then, tape stains are very tough to remove.

 

Don't waste your time with freezing or heating. All this will do is possibly cause more damage.

 

Freezing works best if it got wet and is still wet to slow down the spread of mold. Several months isolated in the deep freeze until it is freeze dried is great for this.

 

After Katrina I froze several pieces and forgot about them for months. When I slowly thawed them out outside of the plastic bag, they were remarkably fresh.

 

When thawing you must avoid condensation re-wetting the paper or you're back to square one!