Long-term stability of materials in the art

Three elongated glass plates coated with yellow paint on a sheet of paper, labelling underneath: under the left one it says "unaged", under the middle one it says "aged UV1" and under the third one it says "aged UV2". Under all three is written: Alkyd + PY3.

Cultural objects, especially works of art, are constantly at risk of irreversible damage due to intensive exhibition politics, but also due to environmental pollutants and climate changes. These effects can lead to the complete destruction of the material, especially for outdoor objects.

The long-term stability of materials in the field of arts is tested by systematic investigations, weathering and light tests. Above all, methods of modern surface analysis are used, which make it possible to detect material changes already in the nanometer range. Finally, such systematic studies may suggest and test modern materials and procedures of conserving and preserving our cultural heritage.

Name: Univ.-Prof. Dipl.-Biol. Dr. Katja Sterflinger
Phone: + 43 (1) 58816 - 8600
Email: k.sterflinger@akbild.ac.at

Name: Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Dr.techn. Priv.-Doz. Rita Wiesinger
Email: r.wiesinger@akbild.ac.at

Name: Dr.rer.nat. MSc. Federica Cappa
Phone: + 43 (1) 58816 - 8620
Email: f.cappa@akbild.ac.at

Name: Dipl.-Ing. Dr.techn. Dubravka Jembrih-Simbürger
Phone: + 43 (1) 58816 - 8617
Email: d.jembrih-simbuerger@akbild.ac.at

Name: Dr.rer.nat. MSc. Valentina Pintus
Phone: + 43 (1) 58816 - 8680
Email: v.pintus@akbild.ac.at

Name: Mag. Dr. Wilfried Vetter
Phone: + 43 (1) 58816 - 8614
Email: w.vetter@akbild.ac.at