20 December 2024
The AURORA project continues to break ground in its fight against the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage. Azra Becevic Sarenkapa, a conservator and museum advisor from the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina and a representative of the Balkan Museum Network, recently conducted a study visit to AURORA partner organization CSGI (Center for Colloid and Surface Science) in Florence, Italy.
The visit’s focus was on exploring the application of chemical markers to diverse materials commonly found in museum collections. Particular attention was given to materials like wood, which is extensively used in artifacts that are highly susceptible to looting and illegal trade, including religious icons and paintings.
Key Activities and Developments
Testing Chemical Markers
- Experiments were conducted with chemical markers on various substrates, using museum protocols to ensure the methods align with conservation standards.
- The team emphasized reversibility in the application of visible or invisible inks and explored protective coatings for both the surface of objects and the inks themselves.
Application Techniques and Materials
- Different application methods were tested, including brushes, fountain pens, and stamps made from diverse materials.
- Experiments were complemented by ageing processes to evaluate long-term stability and readability of the markers.
Exploring Protective Layers
- A major focus was placed on understanding how chemical markers interact with protective coatings applied before and after their use.
- UV-visible markers, such as ZnO and phosphor-based inks, showed promising results. However, challenges such as the instability of green phosphor on certain substrates without protective layers require further research into suitable binders and coatings.
Tailored Approaches for Museum Collections
The findings emphasize the importance of customized approaches for different materials and artifact types. By understanding the composition of museum collections, chemical markers can be optimized to enhance readability and effectiveness in real-world applications.
Collaborative Outcomes
The study visit also benefited from collaborative research between CSGI and T-UCC, which explored various ink formulations, substrates, and application techniques. These efforts represent a significant step forward in developing innovative tools for safeguarding cultural heritage.
About the AURORA Project
The AURORA project (Artwork Unique Recognition and Tracking through Chemical Encoded Data, Miniaturized Devices, and Blockchain Alliance) is funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe program. This groundbreaking initiative combines cutting-edge technologies to combat cultural property trafficking and ensure the long-term protection of cultural heritage worldwide.
For more updates on AURORA’s progress, stay tuned to our website and social media channels.
