Effects of ionizing radiation on artistic paints and pigments used in the restoration of works of art

Abstract

Ionizing radiation is an alternative in combating the deterioration of cultural heritage as it is effective in eliminating biological infestations, from the presence of insects to contamination by fungi and bacteria. The process took place through the emission of gamma radiation (60 Co). The objects of study refer to 3 samples of canvas that received layers of paints and pigments, both intended for the practice of restoring works of art and that were exposed to cumulative doses of 3 to 15 kGy. Instrumental analyzes included X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy – XRF, Colorimetry, Scanning Electron Microscopy - SEM and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy - FTIR. The results of the analyzes showed that the samples remained without significant changes.