Paint and Mortar Analysis for Atlantic Heritage

The WLCC currently maintains a collaboration with Atlantic Heritage, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the documentation, preservation, and conservation of significant sites and structures across the southeastern United States and the Caribbean. We have provided paint and mortar analysis documentation for multiple sites managed by Atlantic Heritage across the state of South Carolina.

Our paint analysis workflow follows a standardized procedure used by historic preservation and cultural heritage professionals. The first step in the process is the on-site collection of samples taken from various locations on the exterior and/or interior of the chosen structure. These samples are carefully taken with a scalpel and placed into individually marked sample bags for transportation back to the lab. The samples are cast in resin cubes that, once dry, are cut through to showcase the full paint stratigraphy of the sample itself, from the substrate to the top paint coat. The cut samples are analyzed under different types of microscopes to identify paint layers and accurately color-match the layers using the Munsell Color System. If the samples require Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis, this can be performed at the WLCC lab as well.

Mortar analysis at WLCC involves the collection of mortar samples on-site and a standardized mortar digestion procedure to separate the constituent components of the mortar. After this digestion is completed, preservationists are able to provide accurate details regarding the various percentages of binder, aggregate, and additives in the given mortar sample, as well as a soil comparison of the aggregate and additives left behind.