Authors: I Cacciari D Ciofini M Mascalchi A Mencaglia S Siano
Publish Date: 2011/08/09
Volume: 402, Issue: 4, Pages: 1585-1591
Abstract
The present work focuses on the potential of 3D digital microscopy for assessing micromorphological features during laser cleaning treatments of artworks This application requires preliminary optimization studies aimed at defining operative irradiation parameters and practicable degree of cleaning as well as in situ diagnostic assessments during the restoration work To this goal we developed and tested a dedicated 3D digital microscope by implementing the “shapefromfocus” technique The significant potential of this instrument which provides textural and chromatic information was proven for the phenomenological characterization of black crust removal from stones earthy concretion from bronzes and dark varnish from easel paintings Comparative measurements using 3D digital microscopy and contact microprofilometry were performed after laser cleaning tests of prepared samples genuine archaeological bronze artefacts and a stone sculptural element from Florence’s Dome The results achieved demonstrate the effectiveness and reliability of the novel approach and the advantages it provides with respect to alternative techniques which will allow the methods to be used in the wider restoration community
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