School of Historical Studies Centre for Cultural Materials Conservation

Characterisation, behaviour and deterioration of materials

Archaeological conservation
The development of analysis and assessment protocols for adhesives used on archaeological pottery.

Asia-Pacific Twentieth Century Conservation Art Research Network
APTCCARN is a collaborative effort to explore the history and preservation of twentieth-century cultural material in Asia and the Pacific.

Controlling biodeterioration of cultural materials
The use of free-radical based treatments to inhibit the communication pathways of biofilms

Fading behaviour and colour matching of daylight fluorescent paint
This project investigates methods of optical characterisation and the ageing characteristics of daylight fluorescent paints. The aim is to apply this knowledge to the conservation of modern works of art such as the work of Howard Arkley and Andy Worhol.

Investigating New Corrosion Inhibitors for Copper Based Artefacts
The project is investigating new corrosion inhibitors for copper based artefacts for the aim of identifying a safer and more effective corrosion inhibitor than benzotriazole.

The Behaviour of Western Artist’s Materials in Tropical Environments
An extensive study on the behaviour and conservation of oil painting materials in tropical climates. This research is a critical first step to assess the behaviour of canvas paintings in tropical climates, and is essential in providing informed advice on the care of such collections.

The Twentieth Century in paint
An ARC-funded project to examine new media, pigments, dyes and additives that led to the creation of revolutionary works of art in the 20th century in both Australia and Southeast Asia.

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