Conservation of cultural heritage
The members of the cultural heritage area are active in international conservation research projects, creating a large interdisciplinary network, which together promotes scientific and practice-based excellence in conservation research & treatment. We developed an integrated approach over 10 years for the study of the photophysics & photochemistry of complex systems including colorants, paints & polymers in contemporary art.
Color is an important component in the perception of beauty and in an artist’s original intent when creating a work. Better conservation of our cultural heritage requires detailed knowledge of artwork materials and the complex evolution they have endured over time. Organic dyes have been used from ancient times, and their characterization is a challenge that has been successfully addressed over the past few years by the development of advanced techniques, such as microspectrofluorimetry.
Microspectrofluorimetry was applied by us to the study of medieval illuminations, paint cross sections, millenary textiles, and wall paintings. In our research into color in medieval Portuguese illuminations, we were able to unveil the full complexity of a medieval colorant and to address issues not yet explored, such as the influence of Arab, Jewish, and Christian cultures on the production and underlying technology of Portuguese illuminations.
Development of chromogenic materials
Development of functional ionic liquids