At the British Museum, we are testing the efficiency of Erbium:YAG laser for the cleaning of biological growth on archaeological ceramic objects, terracotta in particular. We are dealing with a dark, dry and inactive/dormant growth in form of speckles, which we are in the process of identifying. We suspect a very old fungi infestation. Despite extensive research, we have not been able to find any publications addressing the cleaning of ceramic objects affected by biological growth, with the exception of a few studies that mention the use of laser (ND:YAG).
We would be really interested in knowing about any relevant published studies on this subject or any personal experience people might have had dealing with such issues. Thanks in advance to anyone who would be willing to share this information. Miriam Orsini, Conservator The British Museum Great Russell Street London WC1B 3DG [email protected] ****** Unsubscribe by sending a message to [email protected] Searchable archives: http://cool.conservation-us.org/byform/mailing-lists/cdl/
