The invention relates to a process for dissolving crystalized carbonates present in Cultural Heritage Artworks.
| Patent title | A light assisted process for dissolving crystalized calcium carbonates present in cultural heritage artworks |
|---|---|
| Thematic area | Bioeconomy, Agriculture and Environment |
| Ownership | ALMA MATER STUDIORUM - UNIVERSITA' DI BOLOGNA, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas |
| Inventors | Marco Montalti, Arianna Menichetti, Juan Manuel Garcia Ruiz |
| Protection | International (PCT) |
| Licensing status | Available for development agreements, option, license and other exploitation agreements |
| Keywords | Dissolution, Carbonates, Irradiation, Restoration |
| Filed on | 26 August 2021 |
Artworks are constantly subjected to deterioration that is mainly due to instability of the materials, water soluble salts, humidity and temperature conditions, atmospheric pollutants and biological action. Unwanted formation of CaCO3 can occur, which contributes to artwork deterioration. CaCO3 can be removed using non selective solvents or solvent blends that can be toxic.
Calcium carbonate dissolution is favored at pH<4, so it is necessary to achieve a lower pH value in the medium in order to efficiently dissolve it. the crystalized CaCO3 on the surface of cultural heritage artworks is treated with a specific product and the crystals are irradiated by means of a light source at a specific wavelength. Thanks to this process, pH perceptibly decreases and it causes the dissolution of CaCO3 in a more precise and safe cleaning way.
Application:
- Method for paintings, frescoes, drawings, prints, mosaics, sculptures, historical monuments and buildings, as well as archaeological sites
Advantages:
- More precise and safe cleaning process