Objectives: Provide the basic tools for a scientific approach to the planning, selection of materials and techniques for the restoration and conservation of works of art. Provide the knowledge and understanding of the materials.
Programme: Historic introduction on the evolution and methodology of the conservation techniques.
Four types of materials are discussed: natural stones, glasses, metals and alloys, textiles.
For each type of material are presented: morphology and structure; evolution of the production technology; causes and mechanisms of alteration and decay with specific reference to natural and environmental factors; wettability, surface tension, capillarity and transport of fluids in porous materials; techniques for the characterization and diagnosis of the state of conservation; techniques and products for the cleaning, consolidation, and protection, both traditional and modern (synthetic polymers).