Selissof Workshop

Services

Pneumatic preparation of fossils

Pneumatic preparation of fossils involves using air pens, similar to mini jackhammers, along with rotating grinding tools powered by compressed air to remove the matrix surrounding the fossil.

At selissof-workshop we employ a range of high precision pneumatic tools which enable the processing of fossils, from the removal of coarse matrices to the careful preparation of the finest details.

Each fossil is prepared with great rigor, according to museum quality standards, under the precision of a microscope to ensure work of impeccable quality.

Pneumatic preparation of fossils – Air abrasive

Also known as micro-sandblasting, the abrasive technique uses fine particles propelled by compressed air to remove unwanted matrix surrounding the fossil.

This method is particularly effective when the fossil is much harder than the matrix, or to achieve the delicate finishes of a preparation.

Chemical preparation

Chemical preparation uses acids, alkalis, or surfactants to dissolve the matrix surrounding the fossil. The choice of chemicals depends directly on the characteristics of the matrix and the fossil to be treated.

We currently offer an acid preparation, particularly suitable for phosphated bone fossils contained in limestone. In addition, for marly gangues, we use potash (KOH), which allows targeted and effective removal of the matrix while preserving the integrity of the fossil.