Conservation of Tortoise Shell Using Hydroxyapatite/Collagen as a Consolidation Material

The ability of hydroxyapatite (HAp)/collagen to consolidate tortoise shell relics was assessed. The chromatic parameters and hardness index of simulated weathered tortoise shells were measured before and after treatment to assess the effect of the application of HAp/collagen material. The HAp particles formed stable colloids under the proper conditions, and their average size was approximately 35 nm. SEM images showed that the HAp/collagen material was effective at filling and bonding the openings of the weathered tortoise shell. Compared with the control materials HAp and DAP/Ca(OH)2, HAp/collagen exhibited the best ability to consolidate simulated weathered tortoise shells. These results suggest a promising new and compatible method for the preservation of tortoise shell relics.