Ink Corrosion - To treat or not to treat ? 

The idea that cultural heritage written or drawn with potentially agressive iron gall ink is endangered and needs utmost care has raised public awareness. The urgency of developing effective mitigation strategies was evident. The new insight into the ink corrosion risk factors allows to spend the limited ressources cost-effectively. 

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Keeping the relative humidity under 60%, and handling with care are the most effective strategies to prolong the existance of originals made with iron gall ink. If an interventive treatment can not be avoided, the aqueous phytate method is recommended. A non-aqueous treatment specifically designed for ink corroded artifacts is not yet on the market. But be aware - all interventive measures introduce new risks which can be dramatic on the long term!