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The Group of
Analytical Chemistry for the Conservation of Cultural
Heritage carries out researches in the field of the
application of analytical chemistry for gaining knowledge
and safeguarding the cultural heritage. In the context of
archaeometry and conservation science, the research group
develops and implements analytical methods based on
chromatography, spectroscopy and mass spectrometry for
the characterisation of organic materials collected from
archaeological objects and artworks. In particular, the
research group applies analytical methods. Since antiquity,
a variety of natural organic substances such as vegetable
resins, fats and oils, waxes, plant gums, proteinaceous
materials, bitumen and organic dyes have been used as
adhesives, coating and sealing agents, painting and
colouring materials, varnishes, and also as ingredients
for cosmetics, medicines, and preparations for ritual use
such as mummification balms. |
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The chemical
characterisation of artistic and archaeological materials, the
identification of their constituents, and of the residues
contained in ancient vessels is very valuable in terms of what
it reveals about the artistic and manufacturing techniques of
the past.
It can tell us about the degree of technological
advancement of ancient societies, about their diet, trade,
rituals and everyday activities. In addition, knowing the
chemical composition of archaeological and art objects enables
us to assess the state of conservation and on-going
degradation processes, to set up exhibition and storage
conditions, and to plan conservation.
Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), pyrolysis/gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py/GC/MS), high performance
liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS) and direct
mass spectrometric techniques such as direct exposure–mass
spectrometry (DE-MS) are adopted, thanks to their capacity to
obtain detailed information on complex molecular mixtures. In
addition, the development of methods for sample preparation,
the use of complementary techniques such as Fourier transform
infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and of multivariate statistical
methods for data evaluation play an important role in the
research. The groups participates in interdisciplinary
projects aimed at the conservation or at the diagnosis of
artworks, that are often at the boundary between chemistry,
archaeology, conservation and material science, and
collaborates with conservation institutions, museums,
archaeologists, conservators and restorers. |
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