Nanoscience for the Conservation of Works of Art
CHAPTER 13: Inorganic Nanomaterials for the Consolidation of Wall Paintings and Stones
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Published:24 May 2013
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Series: Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
P. Baglioni and R. Giorgi, in Nanoscience for the Conservation of Works of Art, ed. P. Baglioni and D. Chelazzi, The Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013, pp. 345-371.
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This chapter reports on the usage of inorganic nanomaterials for the compatible and stable consolidation of wall paintings and stone artefacts. Traditional consolidants, either inorganic [aqueous Ca(OH)2 solutions or dispersions] or organic [e.g. acrylate or vinyl acetate polymers], exhibit several limitations and drawbacks. On the other hand, dispersions of calcium hydroxide nanoparticles in short-chain aliphatic alcohols ensure optimal consolidation effects, as highlighted by several case studies. Mixed formulations, including barium, strontium, magnesium and calcium hydroxides, can be used on salt-contaminated plasters and other carbonate-based stones, owing to their different chemical reactivity and to the physico-chemical characteristics of the carbonates they form.