The inherent instability of archaeological iron objects is due to contaminated with chloride ions from the burial environment, as well as being exposed to oxygen and high relative humidity. Therefore, the removal of chloride ions and the stabilization of active corrosion are essential steps to prevent further deterioration and to preserve these artefacts. Numerous scholars have investigated various methods for the dechlorination of archaeological irons. However, the complexity of the corrosion mechanisms, the varying condition under which artefacts were buried, the specific characteristic of each object, and the ethical principles of conservation and restoration confront conservation scientists with significant challenges. As a result, from the earliest research in this field to the present day, studies in the subjects are still ongoing. A meticulous review of the literature can lead to a better understanding of existing research findings and help identify aspects that more research is needed. The aim of this paper is to review, critique and examine each of the different chlorination methods, while also discussing their disadvantages and limitations. This review discuses different methods of chloride ions removal and stabilization of archaeological iron artefacts, including electrochemical techniques, immersion in alkaline aqueous solutions, application of subcritical fluids, hydrogen plasma, and biological treatment using bacteria. In addition, factors affecting the process before, during, and after dechlorination, as well as the specific challenges of treating large and composite objects are examined. Finally, by reviewing and comparing the studies conducted in this paper, it was found that there are still gaps in this regard, the analysis of which will ultimately lead to the application and optimization of appropriate dechlorination methods tailored to the specific characteristics of each object and its conservation conditions.
