"Bleaching" old ivories?

[David Love]

Soaking them in any solution while on the keys is dangerous and can cause
the glue joints to loosen.  Ivory is laid down with hide glues and both
ivory and the glue are very hygroscopic.  Introducing moisture can cause the
ivory to begin to change its shape and will compromise the bond.  I would
either leave them alone (what's wrong with an aged ivory look anyway), or, I
would lightly sand them (600 grit) and then buff them out making sure not to
get the ivory too hot.  Some people bleach them using 30% hydrogen peroxide
solution (be careful, it will burn you)and exposure to sunlight or a UV
lamp, but the same problem exists.  Peroxide is H2O2 and during the
oxidation process which bleaches them an oxygen molecule is release leaving
water.  Several applications are usually required and if the heads start
popping off you have a bigger problem than you started with.

David Love

----- Original Message -----
From: "pianolover 88" <pianolover88@hotmail.com>
To: <pianotech@ptg.org>
Sent: October 06, 2001 8:49 PM
Subject: "Bleaching" old ivories?


> I just aquired a complete set of old upright ivories. They are smooth, and
> free of any cracks, chips or crazing. They are, however, quite yellowed.
> I've tried steel wool & Comet with little or no result. Before I tried the
> following, i wanted to ask the list if soaking them in a solution of
bleach,
> either full strength or diluted would bring back the white? Thanks in
> advance for the help!
>
> Terry Peterson
> Precision Piano Service
> Torrance, CA
>
>
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