WLCC Services
Analytical Services
Scientists at the WLCC are able to carry out several elemental and molecular analytical techniques for a variety of applications. The techniques include SEM-EDS, Raman Spectrometry, handheld XRF, FTIR, Ion Chromatography, digital microscopy, and digital radiography.
Paint and Mortar Analysis
The analysis of material samples is an important step in the documentation and preservation of significant buildings, structures, and objects in the fields of historic preservation and archaeology. WLCC offers both paint and mortar analysis for clients seeking to understand more about the cultural heritage they manage. This process involves the collection of samples (either on site or brought to the WLCC lab), preparation of samples, and analysis of sample stratigraphies and physical/chemical composition through microscopy, SEM-EDS, and other analytical methods. Results are presented in a thorough final report that may include images and relevant graphs along with an interpretation of gathered data.
Conservation Services: Examination and Documentation, Treatment, and Preventive
Examination and Documentation
Examination and Documentation is the foundation for any treatment plan. Before treatment can begin, conservators record, both in writing and with various image-recording techniques, the current condition of the material to better understand its method of fabrication, its current condition and possible cause of deterioration. Although conservators can gather considerable information during visual examination and documentation, more sophisticated investigation techniques may be required.
Treatment / In-Situ Treatment
Conservation treatment includes techniques implemented by conservators to directly intervene with the object to enhance its stability, appearance and long-term preservation. Examples of treatments undertaken at the WLCC include stabilization, cleaning, repair and restoration. Stabilization may include treatments such as chloride extraction from archaeological or historical metal artifacts and freeze-drying of waterlogged organic materials. Cleaning treatments may include mechanical, micro-abrasion, chemical or electrochemical techniques, depending on the object and the type of deterioration. Restoration often includes techniques, such as repair and reconstruction, to bring an object back to a known or assumed former condition, most commonly for interpretive purposes.
Preventive Conservation
Preventive Conservation is the management of environmental conditions to slow down deterioration processes and reduce or eliminate the need for interventive treatment. Conservators at the WLCC implement specific procedures and policies to control environmental variables such as relative humidity, temperature, oxygen and light levels. Preventive conservation also includes recommending appropriate conditions for the exhibition and loan of cultural property, managing access and handling, prescribing suitable procedures for storage and display, packing and transport, implementing an integrated pest management plan, and strengthening emergency preparedness guidelines and response.
Freezing/Anoxic Pest Treatment
Freezing and anoxic treatment are both practices utilized in the elimination of pests, where no chemicals or pesticides are introduced into the treatment. Each of the treatments has certain limitations, depending on the type of material, size, quantity, and condition of the object. For freezing treatments, temperature needs to reach at least -20°F, which can effectively eliminate most museum-type pests (beetles, moths, etc.). Anoxic enclosures are created by using a non-permeable material and flushed with nitrogen to displace the oxygen inside. The length of the treatment will depend on the species of pest.
Digital Services: 3D Scanning, Point Mapping, and Photogrammetry
Several digital services are available, including surface documentation using the Breuckmann OptoTOP-HE structured-light scanning system, point mapping using the Vulcan Measurement System, 3D documentation, and coordinate measurement through the use of close-range photogrammetry.
Education and Public Outreach
Education and Public Outreach is a priority at the WLCC. Conservators are regularly involved in teaching and outreach activities, including lectures, presentations and workshops for professional groups and the general public. The laboratory actively participates in supervising and mentoring internships for conservation students and professionals. The teaching capabilities of WLCC conservators range from theoretical principles and ethics of conservation to specific case studies, techniques and methodologies.