Scientific concepts are basic to the conservation or artefacts of every type, yet many conservators have little or no scientific training. These introductory volumes provide non-scientists with an essential theoretical background to their work.

Introduction, Chapter 1. What science is, Chapter 2. Beginning chemistry, Chapter 3. Molecules and chemical equations, Chapter 4. Atomic structure and chemical bonding, Chapter 5. Relating chemical names to structure, Answers to exercises, Index, Bibliography Contents: Introduction, Chapter 1. The nature of dirt, Chapter 2. Mechanical cleaning, Chapter 3. Liquids and solutions, Chapter 4 Organic solvents, Chapter 5. Cleaning with water, Chapter 6 Water, acidity and alkalinity, Chapter 7, Cleaning by chemical reaction, Index, Bibliography Contents: Introduction, Chapter 1. Sticking things together, Chapter 2. The Chemistry of polymers, Chapter 3. Making joints with different types of adhesive, Chapter 4. The strength and stiffness of materials, Chapter 5. How long will it last, Chapter 6. Coatings, Chapter 7. Consolidants, Answers to exercises, Index, Bibliography