Using Archival Japanese Paper and Thermoplastic Resins to Prepare Fossils for Storage, Display, Transport, and Radiography

Kozo washi is an archival-grade paper commonly used in the conservation of museum objects. This paper can be combined with widely used archival adhesives to form lightweight composites of natural fibers and thermoplastic resin, which can be used in fossil preparation. Unlike conventional gypsum compounds, epoxy, or metal supports, paper-resin composites are easily reversed and are made from archival materials, so they conform to modern conservation standards. We present the new "Mayborn Method," a suite of techniques for reconstructing fossil specimens while retaining suitability for radiographic study. Paper-resin composite is used to fill gaps between fragments, reinforce points of contact, and mount acrylic struts inside specimens, creating internal structural supports. Specimens prepared with these composites can withstand orientation along multiple planes for optimal imaging during X-ray and computed tomography analyses. Once a specimen is durable enough to withstand handling, it can be packed for transport with polyethylene foam and stretch wrap, which can remain in place during radiographic imaging. These techniques can be integrated throughout the fossil conservation process, from application in the field to preparation for display. These composites are strong enough to support large, heavy specimens, yet can conform to the contours of small, delicate specimens. Importantly, these techniques can stabilize "sub-fossil" material, broadening opportunities for research on these fragile specimens.