Crystallization damage at the interfaces of artworks

Ongoing project, started in September 2020

Objectives

The aim of CRYSTINART is to develop an integrated approach for understanding, modelling and analysing the decay mechanisms of layered artworks due to salt crystallization. We will be going beyond phenomenological understanding and break open an entire new area of conservation research: combined experimental and computational research in multilayered component systems. 

Towards this aim, we have three objectives. Firstly, gain a physico-chemical understanding and, secondly, perform mechanical and thermodynamic modelling of phenomena that together cause crystallization weathering. Examples are mass transport, chemical reactions, phase transitions and ion transport. For this purpose, we will combine, at the micro-scale, theoretical, numerical and experimental studies to model the interaction between salt crystallization and deformation/damage at the interface regions of two layered materials. Thirdly, we will develop effective and user friendly predictive tools describing the macroscopic material behaviour to develop new conservation strategies, and make these internationally available.

Keywords

#materials #composite #interfaces #crystallization #damage

 
 

A worldwide deterioration problem

One of the most common deterioration problems affecting cultural heritage worldwide is crystallization damage caused by an interplay between salts, environmental changes and material properties. Especially porous materials are susceptible to salt crystallization. It threatens artworks such as sculptures, ceramics, frescoes, paintings, archeological objects and buildings in museums as well as outdoor environments. Most of these artworks are made of an assembly of layered materials with different physicochemical properties. Additional layers of material are sometimes added as conservation measures. The properties of all materials involved and the interfaces between these materials affect the artwork’s susceptibility to deterioration.

Much progress has been made in recent years to understand the impact of salt crystallization in single materials. In the more realistic scenario of multiple materials, many questions remain unanswered related to the interfaces between material layers.

Using highly advanced experimental techniques

During CRYSTINART project the following highly experimental techniques are used:

  • high-resolution X-ray Computed Tomography

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging

  • Confocal Raman and 3D-laser scanning microscopy

In combination with:

  • Micro-macro finite-element numerical modeling.

We aim to develop an integrated approach for modeling and analysis of the decay of artworks due to salt crystallization in layered materials. We will combine experimental, theoretical and numerical studies at the micro-scale to model the interaction between salt crystallization and mechanical response at the interface regions of layered materials. We will translate this information to what happens on the macro-scale, and develop effective predictive and user-friendly tools that describe macroscopic material behavior for broad range of artifact types.