ncptt materials conservation program

NCPTTMaterials Conservation

Mary F. Striegel2014 Cultural Resources Advisory Group

Natchitoches, LA

You’re not sure NCPTT’s materials conservation research can help you preserve cultural resources

Three ways materials conservation research can help you

Understand materials

Study Environments

Develop Treatments

HOW DO CULTURAL MATERIALS CHANGE OVER TIME?

Physical changes

Terrazzo Flooring

Laser profilometer

Chemical Changes

Air Pollution Studies

Deposition

Ion Chromatography

Biological changes

Biocide cleaners on grave markers

Biological testing

In the Field

HOW DO CONDITIONS AFFECT CULTURAL MATERIALS?

Environmental factors

Artificial weathering

Natural weathering

Respond to disasters

Crude oil and cultural heritage

Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Floods

Build on existing information

3D scanning of objects

DOD Standards

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED TO PRESERVE MATERIALS?

Evaluate commercial treatments

Paint primer systems

Rust converters

Graffiti removal

Develop new treatments

NSF Grant on POSS polymers

Intermittent misting

Laser cleaning studies

Conduct hands-on events

Conferences: Fountains

Workshops: Cemeteries

Internships

Conclusions

Knowing your materials

Understanding the

environment

Applying appropriate treatments

NCPTT’s Materials Research can help you make better preservation decisions by