PEGcon

PEGcon is an easy-to-use two-part application that helps conservators calculate how much polyethylene glycol (PEG) to use to conserve waterlogged wood.

The first part of the application provides the final concentration of PEG to treat the wood. This calculation will specify how much of each grade of PEG to put into the impregnating tank. It is intended to be used as a method of calculating appropriate PEG concentrations based on the wood species and the extent of the wood degradation.

The second part is designed to aid in making up and changing the PEG solutions. It determines how much solution to remove when you increase the concentration of the high molecular weight component. Obviously, it is desirable to waste the minimum amount of PEG, and it is also important to keep the solution volume constant throughout the treatment.

If you would like more information about PEGcon or to receive a copy of the complete PEGcon application, please contact the Canadian Conservation Institute.