The Evaluation of The Effect of Agarose-Based Cleaning Systems on Cotton Fabrics

Cotton textiles, commonly affected by ink stains, due to frequent handling and misuse, present a significant conservation challenge. As interest in sustainable conservation methods increases, agarose-based gels have gained attention as promising, non-invasive alternatives due to their controlled application and minimal impact on the treated material. This study investigates the efficiency of agarose gel-based systems in comparison to conventional solvent-based treatments for removing ink stains from both aged and unaged 100% cotton fabrics. Various concentrations of agarose gels (2%, 3%, and 5%) combined with different ratios of isopropyl alcohol (60%, 80%, 100%) were evaluated alongside commercial and solvent-based treatments—both with and without suction assistance. The efficacy of these treatments was assessed through colorimetric measurements, visual inspection, USB microscopic inspection, FTIR spectroscopy, and mechanical testing. The results indicated that although solvent-based treatments with suction—especially those using 100% isopropyl alcohol—were effective in removing stains, they notably weakened the fabric. In contrast, agarose-based systems, particularly the 3% concentration combined with 60% and 80% isopropyl alcohol, achieved a balanced outcome by providing moderate cleaning while maintaining the fabric's structural strength and chemical stability. These findings underscore the potential of gel-based systems as safer and effective options for conserving historical textiles.