Environmental Assessment and Material Analysis

The first step in any successful Conservation treatment is identifying the materials and methods of manufacture, so a treatment plan can be developed to meet the artifact's unique needs.  This could include specific exhibit or storage guideline that address light levels and humidity parameters; or it could help identify which conservation interventions would be safe and appropriate to stabilize a damaged artifact. Material analysis can also inform us about the object's history, usage, and previous restorations.  

There are many analytical methods from visual screening and material characterization tests to laboratory based analysis (FTIR, XRF, UV light, X-ray, Gas Chromatography, paint layer cross-sections).  The latter methods utilize specialized scientific equipment and may require destructive sampling, however, some testing may be completed quickly and easily onsite.  If you have a question about your artifact or are considering material analysis for authentication or treatment concerns please reach out to us.  

Advanced Analytical Services: We partner with other providers to help clients with specialist analysis including, TL Dating, Authentication, Paint layer identification and analysis for historic structures, XRF spectral analysis and much more.  We can connect you to the right service provider for your individual needs!

The storage and display environment have a profound impact on the long term preservation of artifacts. Monitoring and analyzing the current environmental conditions is as important as material identification to create an effective preservation plan.  We can quantify important variables like light and UV levels, humidity, and temperature, as well as qualitative assessment of potential dust, pest, traffic, and security concerns.