Some of the most important decisions in conservation and restoration relate to material selection. In some cases, use of inappropriate repair materials can reduce the lifespan of an object more than leaving it alone. But deciding which materials to use is not always a straightforward matter, based as it is on a complex balance of knowledge and judgement.
So what questions should we be asking of the fabric we are conserving and the materials we use to do it? And how do we prioritise competing factors to reach a decision on treatment?
Join us as we bring together a range of experienced professionals to consider these questions and many more.
Speakers include:
Rhys Brookes, Conservation architect: an overview of the journey of architectural materials from origin to object, including the impact of this journey on form, use and lifecycle.
Alan Williams, Archaeometallurgist: examining historical ironmaking processes and the impact these processes have on the nature of the alloys produced.
Dave Gent, Bridge Engineer & Geoff Wallis, Metalwork Conservator: analysing selected repair, filling & joining materials for wrought iron.
David James, Conservation Blacksmith: exploring the arguments for and against traditional materials via a case study on the use of lead as a fixing and filler material for historic ironwork.
Peter Meehan, Metalwork Conservator: presenting interim findings from his PhD on alkyd oil, epoxy resin/acrylic urethane and linseed oil lead-based coatings for historic ironwork.
