This week, I wanted to explore art conservation through the lens of nanotechnology. The intersection of these two concentrations creates a great opportunity for art to be preserved for longer periods of time. One way nanotechnology can lend a hand in this effort is through nanodroplets, called micelles and microemulsions. These nanodroplets remove dirt and grime from wall and easel paintings. With this technology, it can serve as an alternative to organic solvents like petroleum ether and white spirit, which are less environmentally friendly.
Another way nanotechnology can advance the field of art conservation is through nanoparticles as a restorative component. By using inorganic nanoparticles in conjunction with the nanodroplet emulsions, art can be conserved for longer periods of time because they are far more stable than the many current alternatives. When nanoparticles are applied on porous artifacts and painting, nanoparticles can penetrate the surface because of their small size and high surface interactions. Those same particles then interact with the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and transform new calcium carbonate to reinstate the mechanical properties of the original artifact.
One other way nanotechnology can be used to conserve art is through Nanocontainers for flaky paint. When paintings begin to wear down, it is often caused by the degradation of binders within the paint. Since the 1960s, synthetic polymers have been commonly used to preserve artifacts to consolidate flaking. The issue is that these synthetic polymers are more harmful because they cause physical stress to the surface of the paint, which can actually just result in more flaking.
The photo below shows a painting restoration from the Annunciation Basilica in Nazareth .
These nanotechnological advancements have created a wealth of opportunity for art to be preserved for longer periods of time. However, the art community needs to be aware of the possible negative environmental issues these advances may cause. Health implications also need to be considered before the art community adopts such widespread use of these techniques.
For a possible project, it would be interesting to explore the ways in which nanotechnology can further develop advancements for art conservation.
Works Cited
“Art Conservation and Nanotechnology: A Wonderful Confluence of Arts and Sciences.” Sustainable Nano, 12 May 2017, sustainable-nano.com.
“Nanomaterials to Preserve Ancient Works of Art.” Phys.org – News and Articles on Science and Technology.
Piquepaille, Roland. “The Nanoscience of Art Restoration.” ZDNet, ZDNet, 23 Oct. 2006.
Robertmaynord. “Robertmaynord.” The Art Treehouse.
Sorrel, Charlie. “European Museums Are Using Nanotechnology To Preserve And Restore Modern Artworks.” Fast Company, Fast Company, 20 June 2016.
nanotechnology & design 