Nanoparticle Protection

New inorganic nanoparticles that simultaneously restore and preserve ancient artworks have been developed by researchers in Italy. Many types of cultural heritage could be treated using this method, without causing further damage over time unlike some currently used restoration techniques and polymer coatings.

Preservation and restoration of artwork is important, as paintings such as frescos – Italian wall paintings applied straight onto plaster – give us important glimpses into history. A standard method used by conservators for protecting frescos is to apply an acrylic polymer coating, but such coatings can turn yellow, giving the surface a plastic appearance and damaging the artwork in the long term.