BS EN 17655:2022 - Conservation of Cultural Heritage

Determination of Water Absorption by Contact Sponge Method

Standard Number: BS EN 17655:2022

Pages: 16

Released: 2022-08-15

ISBN: 978 0 539 16442 8

Status: Standard

Overview

The BS EN 17655:2022 standard is an essential document for professionals involved in the conservation of cultural heritage. This standard provides a comprehensive methodology for determining water absorption in materials using the contact sponge method. Released on August 15, 2022, and spanning 16 pages, this standard is a crucial resource for ensuring the preservation and longevity of cultural artifacts.

Why Choose BS EN 17655:2022?

Cultural heritage conservation is a delicate and intricate field that requires precise and reliable methods to ensure the integrity of historical artifacts. The BS EN 17655:2022 standard offers a scientifically validated approach to measure water absorption, which is a critical factor in the degradation of materials. By adhering to this standard, conservators can make informed decisions to protect and preserve valuable cultural heritage.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Methodology: Detailed instructions on the contact sponge method for accurate water absorption measurement.
• Scientific Validation: Based on rigorous research and testing to ensure reliability and accuracy.
• Wide Applicability: Suitable for a variety of materials commonly found in cultural heritage artifacts.
• Easy to Follow: Clear and concise guidelines that are easy to implement in practical conservation work.

Benefits of Using BS EN 17655:2022

Implementing the BS EN 17655:2022 standard in your conservation projects offers numerous benefits:

• Enhanced Preservation: By accurately measuring water absorption, conservators can take proactive measures to prevent material degradation.
• Informed Decision-Making: Reliable data on water absorption helps in making evidence-based decisions for conservation treatments.
• Consistency and Standardization: Ensures uniformity in conservation practices, leading to better outcomes across different projects.
• Professional Credibility: Adhering to recognized standards enhances the credibility and professionalism of conservation efforts.

Who Should Use This Standard?

The BS EN 17655:2022 standard is designed for a wide range of professionals involved in the conservation of cultural heritage, including:

• Conservators and restoration specialists
• Museum and gallery curators
• Archaeologists and researchers
• Architects and engineers specializing in heritage buildings
• Students and educators in conservation and heritage studies

Detailed Content

The 16-page document is meticulously structured to provide a thorough understanding of the contact sponge method. It includes:

• Introduction: An overview of the importance of water absorption measurement in conservation.
• Scope: Defines the range of materials and contexts in which the method can be applied.
• Methodology: Step-by-step instructions for conducting the contact sponge method, including preparation, execution, and data interpretation.
• Validation: Information on the scientific validation of the method, ensuring its reliability and accuracy.
• Case Studies: Examples of practical applications of the method in real-world conservation projects.
• References: A comprehensive list of references for further reading and research.

Conclusion

The BS EN 17655:2022 standard is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in the conservation of cultural heritage. By providing a reliable and scientifically validated method for measuring water absorption, this standard helps ensure the preservation and protection of valuable artifacts for future generations. Whether you are a seasoned conservator or a student in the field, this standard is a must-have tool in your professional toolkit.

BS EN 17655:2022

This standard BS EN 17655:2022 Conservation of cultural heritage. Determination of water absorption by contact sponge method is classified in these ICS categories:

• 97.195 Items of art and handicrafts. Cultural property and heritage

This document establishes the methodology to measure the quantity of water absorbed by a defined surface of a porous inorganic material used for and constituting cultural property, by contact sponge method. The method can be used on porous inorganic materials which are untreated or have undergone any treatment or ageing. The method can be used both in the laboratory and in situ on flat surfaces. NOTE 1 Treated materials are those which have been subjected to cleaning; to the application of water repellent, consolidating and/or biocidal products; to artificial aging tests, etc. NOTE 2 The test is not intended to be used on surfaces which are severely deteriorated, where application of the sponge is likely to cause material loss. The operator is expected to ensure good contact with the perimeter of the container. The test is not accurate when applied to rough surfaces.