58442 - Chemistry of Cultural Heritage

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student will acquire knowledge concerning the micro-chemical, optical and FTIR microscopy methods suitable for the micro-destructive characterization of both the organic and inorganic components constituting art and archaeological objects of art. Particular emphasis will be given to the chemical constitution, source, production technique and analytical methods of examining the artists' pigments commonly used on both mouvable and immouvable heritage supports In particular the student will be able to: - be acquainted with the microchemical methods used for the characterization of pigments, binding media and corrosion/degradation products on different cultural heritage supports, - be acquainted with the most advanced sample preparation techniques used in the optical and micro-FTIR microscopy characterization methods.

Course contents

• 1. Microchemical analyses:

1. Introduction to the analytical sequence and integrated use of different microchemical and microscopical technique for the study of art and archaeological materials
2. sampling
   
3. cross-sections preparation
4. spot test analyses carried out of bulk samples and directly on cross section

• Optical microscopy

1. principles
2. observation of cross section under reflected and UV fluorescence light
3. layer thickness measurement
4. documentation of the morphological characteristics of pigments, corrosion and paint layers
5. case studies

• FTIR Microscopy

1. Principles
2. non-destructive and micro-destructive analyses
3. sampling techniques (ATR, Total reflection, diamond cell, compression cell, ATR mapping
4. advantages and limitations of the technique
5. case studies

Readings/Bibliography

• D. Pinna, M. Galeotti, R. Mazzeo (Ed.); Scientific examination for the investigation of paintings. A handbook for conservator-restorers, 2009, Centro Di, Firenze (Italy)
• S. Prati, E. Joseph, G. Sciutto, R. Mazzeo ; New advances in the application of FTIR microscopy and spectroscopy for the characterization of artistic materials. Accounts of Chemical Research 792-801, June 2010, Vol. 43, n.6.
• E.L. Kendix, S. Prati, R. Mazzeo, E. Joseph, G. Sciutto, C. Fagnano; Far infrared spectroscopy in the field of cultural heritage, e-Preservation Science, 2010, 7, pp.8-13

Teaching methods

Lessons and laboratory sessionsproviding a basic understanding of the chemical methods of examining cultural property.

Assessment methods

Oral examination

Teaching tools

Computer projector, PC, laboratory sessions (sample preparation, microchemistry, optical and FTIR microscopy)

Office hours

See the website of Rocco Mazzeo