Archaeology and Preventive Conservation

Conservation and archaeology are closely linked. Uncovering an archaeological find immediately raises the question of how to preserve these relics of the past. Building physics methods, such as moisture control or the development of new adaptive materials, can prove to be extremely useful. Since 2012, Fraunhofer IBP has been involved in helping to preserve the ancient city of Pompeii, for example within the framework of the “Pompeii Sustainable Preservation Project”.

The project focuses on research and on imparting the necessary skills to people to preserve and conserve the archaeological sites of Pompeii. The project organizes restoration and training campaigns. The practical implementation of these campaigns on site will contribute significantly to the preservation of Pompeii's valuable cultural heritage.

In connection with the initiative “Pompeii Sustainable Preservation Project”, in 2015 another associated research project “Pompeii as a restoration archive and exhibition laboratory (from 1748 to the 21st century)” was launched: A scientific and humanistic study of the history of the restoration work and creation of a museum in Pompeii, combined with the goal of developing innovative, sustainable restoration materials and methods. The project is being carried out in cooperation with the Max Planck Institute of Art History in Florence. The IBP working group Concrete Technology and Functional Building Materials is involved in materials research and the development of new restoration materials.