Conservation and Preservation
Ultraviolet (UV) light, particularly longwave UV (UVA) lights are essential tools in conservation and restoration to assist in the non-destructive examination and assessment of artworks, cultural objects and artefacts. The most critical stage in restoration and conservation work, UVA lights provide an effective tool for making subsurface layers or artworks and previous repairs visible.
UVA light helps conservators identify details and materials, detect repairs and grade the condition of objects that is not possible with the naked eye.
Benefits of UVA Lights in Restoration
- Reduction in pre-restoration analysis time
- Reduction in restoration errors
Identification and Dating
Different materials fluoresce under UVA light which helps conservators to identify specific pigments and their periods, coatings and materials which provide insights into an object’s age and origin.
Restoration, Repair and Damage
Conservators can identify areas of fillings, adhesives, repainting or retouching, as new pigments and materials may fluoresce differently compared to original materials. Previous restorations can be evaluated to determine the extent and quality of past repairs and define possible areas of damage.
Old natural varnishes fluoresce a strong green under UV light. This enables conservators to identify the thickness of varnish layers, its age and areas where old, oxidised varnish has been removed. For old manuscripts where ink has faded, using a UVA light can make them legible again.
The ideal wavelength for UVA inspection of paintings in conservation typically falls within the longwave UV range (320–400nm). The most commonly used is around 365nm. This is optimal because it minimises damage (longwave UV is less energetic and less likely to cause damage to sensitive materials compared to shorter wavelengths) and maximises fluorescence of non-original materials while still providing clear visual feedback.
Organic materials such as pigments, that would otherwise be invisible, often fluoresce under UVA light helping convertors to identify and document them.
The UV light can also be used to detect biological growth such as mould or bacterial deterioration on the surface of paintings caused by high levels of humidity, lack of temperature control and poor air circulation.
In cases of biological damage effective treatment includes the use of UVC disinfection lamps. Talk to us about our range of UVC lights or call 01787 370187 or email sales@uv-light.co.uk.
Assessment of Condition and Authenticity
Assessing the structural condition of a painting relies on being able to see damage and imperfections such as cracks, abrasions, flaking paint, faded inks or mould which may not be visible without the use of UVA lights. Once a conservator has an understating of the condition of a painting, they can prioritise stabilisation of consolidation before they determine the scope of restoration required.
UVA light is also used to reveal erased or invisible details such as signature, dates and other important text.
Whilst a dark room is preferred for non-destructive examinations it’s not strictly necessary, working in a dimmed area or shading the item with a dark cloth can still reveal fluorescent materials.
Products for Conservation and Preservation
Health and Safety Assessments and Training
The health and safety services we provide are designed and tailored specifically to your organisation to help you achieve compliance with the lesser-known Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010.
From site reviews and assessments to risk management training and specific training for employers & employees you can rest assured that we can guide your organisation to achieving compliance and control your risks.
See our health and safety services here or call 01787 370187 or email sales@uv-light.co.uk.