At the end of the Course, the student must know and understand the basic principles governing the interactions between the physico-chemical parameters of indoor environment and the materials that constitute cultural heritage. He/she must also know and be able to critically evaluate microclimatic conditions potentially harmful for the conservation of cultural heritage, making use of instruments and procedures of environmental monitoring.
Course Prerequisites
Understanding the topics covered in the course requires the student to possess basic knowledge of general chemistry and physics. Specifically: chemical properties and physical properties; fundamental laws of chemistry; atoms and molecules, atomic structure; electromagnetic radiation; emission spectrum; corpuscular theory; absorption, reflection, refraction of light.
Teaching Methods
The course is organized in lessons and PowerPoint presentations projected on screen. Detailed lectures, case studies, and seminars are also presented. The course also includes 6 hours of practical exercises.
Assessment Methods
The examination is oral and will cover the topics taught during the course
Texts
The following texts are recommended for further in-depth study: A. Bernardi, Coservare opere d’arte. Il microclima negli ambienti museali, ed. Il Prato, 2003 D. Camuffo, Microclimate for Cultural Heritage, Elsevier, 2013
Contents
Materials of cultural heritage: chemical composition and degradation phenomena Physical and chemical parameters of indoor environments: temperature, relative humidity, light, atmospheric particulate matter Influence of physical and chemical parameters on cultural heritage materials Instruments for measuring and controlling environmental parameters National and European Regulations Principles of preventive conservation
Course Language
Italian
More information
The course includes teaching the principles of preventive conservation with the goal of providing a critical and effective tool for more responsible, efficient management and conservation of cultural property, reducing energy consumption and use of potentially harmful substances
