The project focuses on creating novel learning experiences for college-level STEM education in chemistry framed within artwork preventative conservation. The goal is to provide students with experiences to understand factors that cause fading in colored artworks and adequate measures to prevent or slow down the expected change. Light-induced fading is a serious concern when designing exhibits to protect sensitive artwork for long-term preservation. In this work, students utilize data collected via a micro-fading tester at the Indianapolis Museum of Art to determine the kinetic parameters of light-induced fading for five fluorescent dyes extracted from commercially available highlighters. Additionally, students analyze the fading caused by natural sunlight on the fluorescent dyes via fluorescence/UV-Vis spectroscopy. Using the collected kinetic information, students perform computer simulations to “virtually fade” art made with those dyes and show its change over time. Students then discuss and propose criteria for “acceptable” levels of color change and recommend appropriate measures to control the damage associated with light exposure (e.g., exhibition time, light levels). Examples of the laboratory procedures, data, and results will be presented and discussed in light of their design and implementation for the General Chemistry laboratory program at Sam Houston State University.

Design of laboratory experiences in art conservation science: A kinetics study of light-induced fading of commercially available fluorescent highlighters

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ACS Spring 2023

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