http://hdl.handle.net/10174/14476 2026-04-06T16:09:29Z http://hdl.handle.net/10174/40768 Title: Chemical and molecular profiling of waterlogged ancient ivory Authors: Costa, Marina; Vicente, Cláudia SL.; Espada, Margarida; Faria, Jorge MS.; Teixeira, Jorge MG.; Bettencourt, José; Teixeira, Dora M. Abstract: This research focuses on the chemical and molecular analysis of elephant ivory from two 18th-century British ship-wrecks in the Atlantic Ocean: The Princess Louisa, lost off May Island, Cape Verde, in 1743, and the BH-001 wreck, discovered in Horta Bay, Faial Island, Azores. Both shipwrecks yielded substantial ivory collections, providing a unique chance to investigate their ancient routes. A multi-analytical approach was employed that included X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier-transform infrared spec-troscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), and DNA analysis. These methods were used to distinguish elephant species (African vs. Asian), profile the chemical composition, and evaluate preservation states of the waterlogged ancient ivory. Results showed that ivory from both wrecks originated from African elephants. However, differences in elemental and molecular signatures, as well as varying degrees of structural degradation, suggested distinctions in environmen-tal exposure. This comparative research demonstrates that combining chemical and molecular methodologies is effective in recon-structing the historical context of submerged ivory cargoes. Further research may improve the identification of ivory trade centres and support improved conservation strategies for underwater cultural heritage. 2025-07-02T23:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10174/38694 Title: Trentepohlia Algae as a Diagnostic Tool for Historic Mediterranean – style Houses Authors: Sitzia, Fabio; Pires, Vera; Lisci, Carla; Neves, Samuel; Mirao, José Abstract: Trentepohlia is a genus of filamentous chlorophytes green algae commonly found in association with fungi and bacteria on building envelopes. Their colonies have a characteristic red colouration which results from the production of b-carotene and hematochrome pigments. They are commonly present on walls, roofs and other external building structures and thrive in humid and shaded environments where sufficient moisture is available. Since their growth is strongly influenced by factors such as water availability, time of wetness, substrate temperature, and lighting conditions, the distribution is usually non- uniform and reflects the varying moisture exposure across different parts of a building. Usually, Trentepohlia prevails in areas affected by water rebound, runoff, splashing, capillary rising or accidental water leaks. Moreover, Trentepohlia spotlights intervention restorations done by materials with different thermal conductivity and hygroscopic properties. Given that water is one of the most damaging factors affecting building performance, these algae can serve as valuable bioindicators for detecting the most moisture-affected areas. In this work many case studies regarding tracer properties of Trentepohlia algae will be shown in association with building’s 3D reconstruction, Building Information Modeling, thermal imaging survey and chemical-physical analysis of the growing substrates. 2024-12-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10174/38647 Title: Physical-Mechanical Changes in Portuguese, Greek, and Italian Marbles Under Aging Cycles Simulating Environmental Effects Linked to Bowing Authors: Pires, Vera; Sitzia, Fabio; Dias, Luis; Mirao, José; Neves, Samuel Abstract: Bowing, a significant form of decay, poses a crucial challenge in the preservation of historical and contemporary structures, necessitating comprehensive study and analysis. This research focuses on the mechanical alterations induced by aging cycles of temperature and moisture on three distinct marbles—Portuguese, Greek, and Italian— emphasizing their susceptibility to bowing-associated effects. The prevalence of bowing in prominent historical buildings underscores the urgency of understanding its underlying mechanisms and mitigating its impact. Through 50 aging cycles, our investigation discerns the distinct behaviors and properties exhibited by each marble, providing invaluable insights into the complex interaction between geological composition and environmental stressors. By highlighting the relevance of bowing and its detrimental effects on architectural heritage, this study underscores the importance of proactive measures in conservation and restoration efforts. 2024-12-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10174/38266 Title: ÓRGÃO DE TUBOS DA IGREJA DE SANTA CLARA DE VILA DO CONDE. CONTRIBUTO ANALÍTICO PARA A SUA RECUPERAÇÃO Authors: Bottaini, Carlo; Nejmeddine, Mafalda; Valadas, Sara; Machado, Ana; Candeias, António; Oliveira, César; Coradeschi, Ginevra Abstract: O presente contributo integra-se no âmbito do projeto MONUMENT@RISK – A Igreja de Santa Clara de Vila do Conde: estudo pluridisciplinar para a valorização e salvaguarda de um património em risco. O projeto conta com o apoio da Câmara Municipal de Vila do Conde e com a capacidade analítica do Laboratório HERCULES, sendo desenvolvido no contexto das atividades do Laboratório Associado IN2PAST. Este poster apresenta dados preliminares de uma das tarefas do projeto, com foco no estudo multi-analítico do órgão de tubos do século XVIII, considerado um dos exemplares mais significativos do estilo rococó em Portugal. Este órgão, suspenso numa tribuna cuja estabilidade foi recentemente avaliada por especialistas do Lab2PT, encontra-se atualmente inoperacional e em estado de conservação gravemente comprometido. O trabalho analítico realizado visou a caracterização detalhada das diversas componentes do órgão de tubos. A análise das madeiras e partes móveis foi realizada através da identificação taxonómica de amostras de madeira, utilizando microscopia ótica digital e microscopia eletrónica de varrimento com espectroscopia de dispersão de energia (SEM-EDS). Os tubos foram estudados por fluorescência de raios-X (FRX) e SEM-EDS, com o objetivo de identificar a sua composição química e os possíveis processos de deterioração resultantes da exposição a condições ambientais inadequadas. Adicionalmente, o estudo das policromias e dos douramentos envolveu uma análise minuciosa dos elementos decorativos do órgão. Os resultados apresentados neste poster constituem um passo essencial para a compreensão e conservação do órgão, contribuindo para a sua futura reabilitação e valorização. 2024-10-20T23:00:00Z