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Combined Application of X-Ray and Neutron Imaging Techniques to Wood Materials
Get PDFConservation of Cultural Heritage is extremely important not only from a cultural point of view, but also from a practical one. It is our duty to pass on to future generations the cultural heritage left tous by our ancestors. Wood is one of the most common materials used to generate works of art which are in a state of constant change and/or deterioration. In order to optimize the knowledge of artworks together with their conservation, it is necessary to use the most advanced scientific and technological tools. In the following paper, we will show the results which can be achieved by application of complementary techniques based on the combined use of X-rays and neutrons as structural probes
Augmented Reality Applied to the Diagnostics and Fruition of Cultural Heritage
Get PDFThe term “Augmented Reality” (AR) is used to define integrated hardware and software technologies, designed to mix video footage taken by a camera with three-dimensional virtual objects. The result is a mix between real reality and virtual reality. Many applications of this technology are beingdeveloped for use in the field of cultural heritage and are being introduced for use in specialized contexts such as in certain phases of the diagnostic process or fruition. The basic algorithmic approach for augmented reality, starts from a video stream analysis that incorporates a real scene. Within the same scene are scattered a set of known geometric images called“markers”. When the software module in charge of the video flow analysis identifies a marker within the scene, it tries to position it in relation to a reference system integral with the chamber which performs the video shoot, and then replaces it in real time, overlapping with a 3D model achieved through a virtual modeling software. The aim of this article is to evaluate the state of the art augmented reality and then examine several experiments involving its application to cultural heritage
Towards a Phenomenology of Cultural Heritage
Get PDFThis work fits into the broader academic debate on the legitimacy of the Sociology of Cultural Heritage. The origin of the term itself is investigated by analyzing the words that compose it and their interpretation in the context of post-modern society. The paper then explores some specific aspects of the discipline, such as the fight against the deterioration of Cultural Heritage and the attempt to make it economically attractive and profitable. Finally, it examines in detail several dimensions related to Art and Culture: the desacralization of museums and cultural artefacts, the articulation of historical and artistic heritage, the rediscovery of popular culture and, finally, the definition of the sense of Cultural Heritage
Microscopy and Molecular Biology Techniques for the Study of Biocenosis Diversity in Semi-Confined Environments
Get PDFThis study is part of a wider conservation project of artistic and anthropological finds located in the Grotto of the Saints (Licodia Eubea, Alia, Sicily), and represents an opportunity for investigating the micro-and macro biological systems colonizing this particular environment. It is well-known that the bio-receptivity of surfaces is strongly related to its constituent materials and environmental parameters, whose effects promote the establishment of specific biotic communities. This is particularly true for caves, hypogea and semi-confined environments and, in particular for the Grotto of the Saints, where besides the presence of different nutrient sources, there are also high humidity values, percolating water and an aerobiological exchange with the surrounding countryside. Moreover, the weathering of this structure is enhanced by the canyon effect of the wind and the day-night temperature range. The identification and characterization of the biocenosis present in this environment was performed combining microscopy (optical, fluorescent, CLSM) and molecular biology analysis (DNA sequences). The aim was to identify the biological systems able to trigger the degradation processes, in order to plan their growth control and to prevent the colonization of the entire environment
Microclimate Management for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage
Get PDFThis paper presents a line of research aimed at studying in detail the interaction between air conditioning/heating systems and thermo hygrometric conditions inside museums. An experimental test was carried out on the microclimatic conditions inside a building envelope, using as case studies the interiors of the Castle of Chiaramonte in Favara (Agrigento), and the Church of Saint Matthew (Palermo). In this phase of the work the “real” measured values and the recommended “optimal” values were compared for the various museum exhibits displayed. The analysis of the complex dynamic interaction of climate conditions, the need for the museum pieces to be preserved in a situation of maximum stability, the problems regarding thermal comfort in relation to users’ enjoyment of the exhibition space, the construction model of the building envelope – the synergy between all these variables led to establishing the final design project. This consists of an air conditioning system with radiant panels, floor heating, cooling system and primary air, in which the benefits seen from an environmental and energy point of view, are fully explained. The conservation of cultural heritage collections in museums, on the one hand implies that the attentionof the specialists must turn to the prevention of the natural degradation caused through time and on the other to improve the quality of the environment. This means environmental parameters must be checked and monitoring techniques used. Since the connective tissue between the museum and its container is the environment, the building-plant system must be held responsible for the “degradation suffered by the museum itself” or “be largely responsible for its optimal conservation with the passing of time”
Activity of the CIRIAS as regards energy and environment
Get PDFCIRIAS an interdisciplinary research facility – theoretical and applied – of the University of Palermo, offening its services to the territory, proposes to conduct studies and research, teach highly technical and scientific skills, develop seminars and conferences, and manage databanks in collaboration with public or private institutions. Currently adhering to the Centre are scholars covering various areas of specialization (Economics, Engineering, Agriculture, Psychology). Through its specialists it is therefore able to develop and validate complex systems of industrial automation, industrial robotics, underwater robotics and, socio-economic systems that govern not only industrial production but also the sector of transport, telecommunications and environmental pollution; to carry out studies on predictive models related to the area, activities related to the new economy and tourism or other activities that the development of science and technology offer; to carry out training and consultancy in the field of automation for companies that operate in the territory
Information, documentation and certification in western and ethnic art
Get PDFThe study of a cognitive and experimental nature regards the sector of ethnic artifacts, especially interesting from a socio-historical point of view as well as a technical-conservative one, but at the same time the object of limited research. In the present paper the specific area of knowledge of the art market is present, in relation to the various economic-financial and diagnostic-analytical-material aspects. The consequent result, that derives from the meeting point of the different scientific competences and experiences can supply an initial and nonetheless significant contribution for a complete and correct evaluation in the sector of ethnic products
Laser scattering methodology for measuring particulates in the air
Get PDFA description is given of the laser scattering method to measure PM10, PM2.5 and PM1 dusts in confirmed environments (museums, libraries, archives, art galleries, etc.). Such equipment presents many advantages, in comparison with those which are actually in use, not only from an analytic but also from a functional point of view