This three-day course examines the properties, microstructures, deterioration and conservation of modern alloys including aluminium, titanium, magnesium, zinc, nickel, stainless steel and the coatings on modern metals and alloys.
The training of metal conservators and conservation scientists often covers ancient metals, whereas information concerning more recently developed materials, such as aluminium alloys, stainless steel and metallic coatings is seldom included in the academic programs. These ‘modern’ materials are currently getting older and require some care. This workshop introduces the manufacture, properties and applications of these new materials as an essential step for their conservation.
The morning lectures discuss the main types of new alloys, surface treatments and metallic coatings. During the ‘hands-on’ afternoon sessions participants learn metallographic techniques and discover the important diversity of information from examination of structure as well as the evaluation of mechanical properties from microhardness measurements. Practical demonstrations of surface treatments include passivation, anodisation and metal coatings. An evaluation of the deterioration of such materials together with conservation and handling techniques will be discussed.
The workshop is aimed at conservators, modern art curators, conservation scientists and anyone who needs to have some knowledge about these materials for the purposes of conservation.
www.academicprojects.co.uk