Simulation Of Degradation Phenomena On Model Enamels With Historical Compositions

Enamels from arts and crafts objects of the Renaissance and Baroque period in Europe show an increasing and irreversible degradation caused by microclimatic environmental influences. In this paper typical degradation phenomena were simulated and the mechanisms of degradation are described. Model enamels on copper substrates were produced and exposed to accelerated weathering in a climate chamber. The enamel compositions were selected according to the analysis of originals.