Experiments on Bleaching. By Francis Home, M. D. Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians in Edinburgh. To which are added, I. An experimental essay on the Use of Leys and Sours in Bleaching. By James Ferguson, M.D. II. An explanation of the effect of lime upon alkaline salts; and a Method pointed out whereby it may be used with Safety and Advantage in Bleaching. By Joseph Black, M.D. III. An abstract of the foregoing essays, containing, Practical Rules and Plain Directions for the Preparation and Use of the Sours made of Oil of Vitriol, and of the Leys made of Bleaching-Ashes with the addition of Quick-Lime

Dublin: Printed by T. Ewing, 1771. First Irish edition,12mo, [iv], 295, [1]pp., closed tear to C6 and E3, contemporary calf, rubbed, slight cracking to joints, red leather spine label. First published at Edinburgh in 1756, of "the first scientific study of chemical processes employing bleaching. Written at the request of the board of trustees for the Improvement of fisheries and manufactures in North Britain, the text was read to and the 135 experiments described herein were performed before "the bleachers of this country"." ((Neville. Historical Chemical Library, I, p.653). "A theoretical-practical collection of works on alkaline bleaching of linen. The importance of the book was in changing both bleaching practice and attitudes by recommending the use of lime together with alkalies, which was then actually forbidden by law - bearing the death penalty (!). This book eventually brought about the repeal of these laws by showing that the use of lime does not weaken the fibers, it taken in the right proportions - as prescribed in the book itself."—Ron, Bibliotheca Tinctoria. 0548. Provenance: Ink ownership signature of Mr Carter of Liverpool struck through, 'William Haig, 1787' added.