Any Suggestions for Preserving Fossil Casts?

[Megalodoodle]

I have quite a few casts (too many to post here) of small shells. They are preserved in extremely soft matrix and I am worried about the matrix falling apart over time. The matrix also appears to dissolve quickly when exposed to water. I've lost a few specimens to my failed attempts at extraction with water (lesson learned). I live in Virginia which can be very wet and humid at times, especially in the spring/late summer. I'm trying to avoid posting pics (I'm inherently very lazy) but I will if need be. Thanks.

[JohnJ]

1 hour ago, T. nepaeolicus said:

I'm trying to avoid posting pics (I'm inherently very lazy) but I will if need be.

 

As a courtesy to those that would offer to help you, I think a few photos is a small effort.  

[Megalodoodle]

[Megalodoodle]

For example this. Got some graptolites as well in the same type of rock.

[LabRatKing]

PVA is the go to stabilizer- readily available online for cheap.

[Ptychodus04]

I would suggest Paraloid B72 as it is harder than PVA (Vinac). Dissolve appropriately 1 part plastic in approximately 50 parts acetone by weight.

 

While soaking is the preferred method for stabilization, the casts may be too fragile to survive the soak. Test a specimen in this method. If it survives, great. If not, brush the solution on the remaining casts. I would recommend 2-3 coats with 10-15 minutes between coats.