Pretty Porous Science Lecture #14 "Current challenges in the consolidation of porous paint layers" by Ester Simoes B Ferreira

February 8, 2022 /

The SFB 1313 Pretty Porous Science Lecture #14 will be held by Ester Simoes B Ferreira from the TH Köln (Germany) | 8 February 2022, 4 pm CET

We are pleased to announce that Ester Simoes B Ferreira, professor at the TH Köln (Germany), will give the SFB 1313 "Pretty Porous Science Lecture" #14. Her talk will be on "Current challenges in the consolidation of porous paint layers".

Date: Tuesday, 8 February 2022
Time: 4:00 pm CET
Speaker: Prof. Ester Simoes B Ferreira, TH Köln (Germany)
Lecture title: "Current challenges in the consolidation of porous paint layers"
Place: If you are interested in participating in the lecture, please contact katharina.heck@iws.uni-stuttgart.de

Abstract

Paint is composed of pigments, additives and a binding medium.  When paints are prepared with a low proportion of binding medium or are applied onto absorbent substrates the quantity of organic binder might not be sufficient to create a continuous pigment-binding film resulting in a porous paint layer. Subsequent alterations due to environmental exposure further weaken the paint layer cohesion. Loss of cohesion in paint layers is a serious concern in conservation of cultural heritage objects.   Consolidation treatments aim to introduce an adhesive or consolidant which should ideally homogeneously penetrate the porous layer, thus strengthening the material without modifying surface optical properties. However, consolidation treatments are typically carried out without the possibility to evaluate consolidant distribution and ultimately the success of the treatment. Our current research gives the first steps for a systematic evaluation of cellulose ether based consolidation treatments in underbound paint layers. Our first test case was the painting “Beach Landscape with Trees and Boats” from 1905-06 by Edvard Munch The first challenge deals with the characterization and understanding of the layers to consolidate. Material sampling is limited to microsamples.  The identification of pigment and binder and the characterization of the porosity is fundamental to create mock-up samples where the experimental tests can be carried out. These have been carried out with a combination of FTIR, PyGCMS, tomography and scanning electron microscopy. The role of the application technique and of the physical properties of the consolidant solutions on penetration depth and on improved layer cohesion are assessed.

Prof. Ester Simoes B Ferreira, TH Köln (Germany)
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