Partners and International Organizations
(English)
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AT, BE, CH, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GR, IE, IL, I, MK, MT, NL, NO, PL, PT, RO, SE, SI, SK, TR, UK
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Abstract
(English)
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In this study the main pollutants in the new Collection Centre (SZ) of the Swiss National Museum responsible for the modification and alteration of metallic cultural objects and their corrosion layers were investigated in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Research and Testing (EMPA). Three groups of metals (silver, copper and lead) were representatively selected for long-term monitoring of the air quality. Furthermore, passive samplers were exposed at different places in order to obtain data on a possible contamination by certain pollutants. For comparison, the same tests were made in a storage room of the old Collections Centre (SZA). In order to understand the interactions between airborne pollutants and the different patinas on metallic cultural artefacts artificial patinas were produced. The resulting corrosion products were investigated by EDX, Raman micro spectroscopy and cohesion tests before and after aging for different periods. The results of the metal coupon monitoring attest a predominantly clean environment both for the old and the new storage rooms of the SZA and the SZ. In a certain area a slightly enhanced short-term concentration of pollutants were registered which could possibly have derived from the outside air. Furthermore, a permanent slightly enhanced contamination by organic acids in the area of wooden constructions was detected. In order to detect the source of these pollutants, further tests will be carried out. The components of the artificial patinas did not show a significant structural change after aging. Nevertheless, a decrease in mechanical strength was recorded that was most likely caused by changes in the porousity of the patina. The results of this study will be implemented into preventive conservation strategies at the Collections Centre.
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