Nanotechnologija: naujos galimybės restauruojant kultūros vertybes

ENNanotechnology is based on the recognition that particles of size below 100 nm impart to nanostructures formed from them new behavior and properties. Some innovative inorganic methods based on nanotechnologies, for example, have provided new ways for the consolidation of paintings. In particular, by using these compatible methods, it is possible to perform interventions without modification of the physico-chemical and mechanical behavior of the materials, ensuring long-lasting effects. CSGI (Center for colloid and surface science) in Firenze is involved in several projects aiming to improve materials and techniques for the conservation of cultural heritage. The research group directed by CSGI co-founder Prof. Enzo Ferroni was one of the first Academic Institutions that applied a rigorous scientific approach to the investigation of Cultural Heritage conservation. The peculiarity of the research in the Science for Cultural Heritage resides in its multidiscipinarity, where basic studies are usually associated to technological researches.Several restorations have been carried out with CSGI scientific consultancy, and using innovative methodologies developed in the CSGI Laboratories. Recently, new perspectives have been opened by the application of materials science, colloid science, and interface science frameworks to conservation, generating a breakthrough in the development of innovative tools for the conservation and preservation of cultural heritage. This article is an overview of the most recent contributions of colloid and materials science to the art conservation field, mainly focusing on the use of amphiphile-based fluids, gels, and alkaline earth metal hydroxide nanoparticles dispersions for the cleaning of pictorial surfaces, the consolidation of artistic substrates, and the deacidification of paper and canvas.