Chapters authored
Photochemical Degradation Processes of Painting Materials from Cultural Heritage
This chapter describes some recent studies and applications of photochemistry in the physical–chemical characterization of two acrylic paint materials based on phthalocyanines and the study of the photodegradation (photobleaching) processes which could occur, caused by exposure to artificial irradiation, similar as in the museum. The studies in this paper has been conducted on phthalocyanines, these compounds being known as organic colorants in painting. Their color depends not only on the chemical nature of the colorant, which play an important role in the kinetics and degree of aging, but also on the compounds added to the paints (TiO2, micas, arylamide yellow). The techniques used in such studies involve UV–Vis spectroscopy, gloss, and colorimetric measurements, comparing our results with similar ones from the literature.
Part of the book: Photochemistry and Photophysics
Polymeric Micro- and Nanosystems for Wood Artifacts Preservation
The complex methods of diagnosis investigation of the wood artifacts state and proper materials for their protection against decay are very important goals in cultural heritage. This chapter focuses on the recent trends in micro- and nanostructured polymer systems for application in cultural heritage and on wood preservation, especially. The synthesis, properties, and applications, as well as the relevant analysis techniques to reveal the structures and properties of polymer systems, are discussed, too. To overcome the specific problems that exist for wood artifacts, some aspects should be treated: effects of the environmental factors, as moisture and pollutant absorption into the wood fibers, over-exposure effect of sun or artificial light sources, biological attack of different microorganisms, and the effects of the protective and decorative coatings.
Part of the book: New Uses of Micro and Nanomaterials