Laser technology and optoelectronics as part of a mobile laboratory for protection, conservation and preservation of artworks and architectural historical buildings

Abstract

The cooperation of the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw with the Institute of Optoelectronics, Military University of Technology in the area of implementing laser technology in conservation, and later in diagnostics of the preservation state of artworks started in 1997. The year 1997 was also the year of the big flood in the south-western provinces of Poland, which exposed the lack of a quick reaction and of using conservation personnel and students in the action of rescuing national heritage. It initiated the idea of appointing an emergency conservation unit and extending legislative tasks in situations of natural disasters, catastrophes, fires, etc., as well as undertaking immediate conservation and research work after these events. The paper presents the origin, aims and tasks of the Emergency Conservation Service, its instrumental and personnel-based research/intervention potential, the preliminary results of work and proposals of wide cooperation with staff responsible for heritage protection and care on a national and international scale.