A methodology based on pulsed electromagnetic radiation in an unlicensed radiofrequency band is proposed to eliminate biodeteriogens from biofilms encrusting canvas of artistic interest. Molecular techniques allowed to identify species of bacteria and microfungi in the biofilms. Experimental results showed that the area covered by biofilm disappeared after exposure over five days.

In this study, ToF-SIMS and u-Raman analyses have been employed to assess the feasibility of laser treatments as a selective, non invasive cleaning methodology for archaeological metallic artefacts. A Q-switched Yb:YAG fibre laser, operating at 1064 nm, has been used for the cleaning treatments, carried out in air and 18O rich atmosphere on an ancient bronze coin. The preliminary results show that laser cleaning treatment selectively removes the dangerous oxyhydroxy chlorides corrosion products without affecting the cuprite protective patina grown directly in contact with the metallic surface.

An in situ assessment of the conservation state of some bronze statues exposed outdoor has been carried out in Colombia, in the historical site surrounding the Puente de Boyacá. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) measurements have been performed by using a portable electrochemical interface and by using measuring probes, specifically designed to be capable of working also on slanted surfaces, to be non invasive, and to be removable without damaging the statues with the final aim of developing a long-lasting maintenance methodology for this important complex of Colombian bronze statues.

In recent decades, the need of preserving the cultural heritage is becoming very relevant due to an increase in frequency and in intensity of extreme natural events, which have recalled major attention by the Authorities on natural hazards associated. An important role, in the field of safeguard cultural heritage, is developed by structural and materials engineering. These disciplines conduct an essential role in the definition of risk and in the identification of interventions and technologies that can be used respecting the cultural value of asset. However, archaeological assets are constantly exposed to natural deterioration, human impact and a lot of different agents able to compromise their preservation. The cultural heritage, and the archaeological site are exposed to multiple types of vulnerabilities that involve different disciplines. For this reason, to ensure the preservation of cultural heritage in the time, an interdisciplinary approach is required. In this paper, a multidisciplinary engineering approach is used for the archaeological site of Pietrabbondante; the issue of preservation of cultural heritage will be examined with reference to the environmental context where the site is located.

The Textile Reinforced Mortar strengthening systems (TRM) seems to be one of the better solutions to reinforce the historical masonry structures. The study of the testing methods more appropriates to define the mechanical design parameters is actually of main interest for scientific community. The experimental research presented herein was carried out to define the effective bond length of a Basalt_TRM system applied to a homogeneous substrate. The use of the Digital Image Correlation (DIC) based on a cross correlation function has permitted to define the displacement and strain fields and to better describe the debonding phenomena recorded during the tests.