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Slide 2 The Chemistry of Art Conservation Hilary Jansen November 28, 2001 CH112 Slide 3 A little history... Slide 4 The Flood of Florence Biblioteca Nazionale- 1,300,000 items damaged Library of the Conservatorio di Musica Cherubini- completely flooded The University- billions of lire in damage Slide 5 Slide 6 Slide 7 Slide 8 Slide 9 Paint Chemistry Benzene Toluene Xylene Napthalene Anthracene Slide 10 The Painting Process Base- canvas or wood Application of the primer Paint layers Varnish Slide 11 What leads to the need for restoration? Slide 12 The Aging Process Accumulation of dust and soot- silicon particles Burning candles and lamps- long chains of unsaturated fats Deposits of sulfates and carbonates Oxidation of fatty acids in the glue Slide 13 The Environment Temperature humidity Slide 14 How can art be conserved? Delicate process Application of solvents:ammonium bicarbonate, sodium bicorbonate, Desogen(fungicide and antibacterial agent Temperature control Humidity control Slide 15 Finally,a familiar example... Slide 16 Slide 17