Hardening Nodules

[Rockaholic]

This is more of a preservation question than a preparation question.

This is the piece that has me wondering.

Is there any reason not to use a hardening agent on the exterior of a fragile nodule?

As you can see from this photo the matrix of this “half” of this nodule is super thin.

Are there any recommendations on what to use to harden the exterior of a nodule?I have Butvar but it’s a bit of a hassle to prepare.I’ve used nail hardener for smaller fossils but for the larger surface area of a nodule it seems inpractical.I've thought about using slate coating sealer.Does anyone have any suggestions?

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Edited September 1, 2014 by Rockaholic

[Auspex]

I do not know whether it would serve your purpose, but I would be inclined to bed it in a framed plaster backing.

[squali]

I'm not sure there is anything you could apply that would protect that sliver of rock if it fell to the floor.

Maybe applying the old 50/50 Elmers glue and water. It dries with a glossy finish but can be removed with water.

Nice fossil I wouldn't apply anything directly to it, just the matrix.

[oilshale]

backing made out of polyester resin (body filler or fibreglass resin jelly, for example Bondo). Doesn't look pretty, but will do the job. Can be filled with pigments or finely ground matrix to match the color.

Edited September 1, 2014 by oilshale

[Auspex]

backing made out of polyester resin (body filler or fibreglass resin jelly). Doesn't look pretty, but will do the job.

Prettier than a broken half-nodule!

[Rockaholic]

Thanks everyone for giving me some options to preserve some of my fragile nodules. The plaster option may serve a dual purpose by providing a good way to display specimens. The Elmers glue option would be an inexpensive reversible option. If the Bondo option doesn’t work out I have a 2002 Jetta TDI that I could use any leftovers on.