Porous hydrogel cleans dirt and grime from Jackson Pollock masterpieces

A new sponge-like hydrogel can remove dirt from modern artworks, without damaging them. The material has already been used to clean two masterpieces by US expressionist painter Jackson Pollock.

Microorganisms, atmospheric pollution and poor upkeep can all lead to grime being deposited on paintings’ surfaces. And given the soluble nature of most paints, it’s very difficult to remove these unwanted residues without harming the original artwork.