Simulated Aging Studies on Porcelain Restoration Adhesives for Conservation in Chinese Museums

The advancement of archaeology in China has led to the excavation of numerous fragmented porcelain artifacts. In the conservation and restoration of these artifacts, the long-term stability of adhesives is a critical factor. This study selected four representative adhesives widely used in conservation units across China (epoxy resin Hezhong AAA, epoxy resin Hongxing 509, acrylic resin B-72, and cyanoacrylate 502) to investigate their aging performance.. A multi-analytical approach was adopted, including ultra-depth-of-field microscopy, colorimetric analysis, pencil hardness testing, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).The results demonstrate distinct aging behaviors among the adhesive types. Epoxy resins exhibit high mechanical hardness and structural stability; however, the formation of chromophoric groups during aging can lead to noticeable color changes. Paraloid B-72 shows superior color stability and reversibility, yet it possesses relatively poor thermal stability. Cyanoacrylate adhesive cures rapidly and resists discoloration effectively, making it suitable for temporary on-site assembly. Nevertheless, it is prone to embrittlement and adhesive interface failure over time, posing a potential risk to long-term preservation integrity.The study elucidates the aging mechanisms and performance evolution patterns of different adhesives, providing a scientific basis for the selection, removal of aged adhesives, and long-term preservation in the restoration of porcelain artifacts. Furthermore, it offers theoretical reference for practical conservation and restoration practices related to porcelain cultural relic.