Course on microscopy

Microscopy of Protective and Decorative Coatings
Smithsonian Center for Materials Research and
Education, Suitland, MD
March 11-15, 2002

Mel Wachowiak <wachowiakm [at] scmre__si__edu>
301-238-3700 ext.169
Fee: $500.00

There is still time to register for this effective and popular
course, held at Smithsonian Center for Materials Research and
Education, Suitland, MD. Past attendees include paintings, objects,
furniture, paper conservators, museum scientists, professional
microscopists, and paint manufacturers from USA and abroad.

You receive a full-color course manual, and notebook with nearly 500
pages of off-prints.

This course emphasizes the practical techniques for characterization
of paint and varnish systems.  While the equipment and techniques
will be discussed extensively, you will have a large portion of the
course for practical laboratory exercises.  Topics will include:

    1.  Sample Preparation: this is the most critical factor
        influencing the quality of microscopy, therefore, materials
        and methods of preparation for reproducible, high-quality,
        cost- and time-efficient mounts will be covered. You will
        receive molds, resins and other supplies.

    2.  The Stereomicroscope: this under-utilized tool will be
        profiled as a critical part of microanalysis and
        documentation schemes; common and novel uses of this tool
        will be covered.

    3.  Light microscopy techniques: brightfield, darkfield,
        fluorescence, transmitted light, and combined methods will
        be discussed and used.

    4.  Documentation: photographic techniques, including film
        formats and selection criteria, video, and digital
        techniques will be covered.

    5.  Design of studio space for microscopy, ergonomics,
        specifying and purchasing microscope, and other topics will
        be addressed as time permits

The course is intended for the conservator, museum scientist, or
other professional with some experience in this area.  You are
encouraged to participate fully in dialog during lecture, and
discuss their experiences in microscopy.  You should bring samples
from their practice.  Advice on maximizing or modifying your
microscope can be given during the course.  There will be ample time
for open lab to prepare and examine your samples.

Equipment available: a range of up-to-date stereomicroscopes and
laboratory-grade microscopes will be available, including those
equipped for brightfield, darkfield, and fluorescence.

Melvin J. Wachowiak, Jr.
Senior Furniture Conservator
Smithsonian Center for Materials Research and Education
4210 Silver Hill Road
Museum Support Center Room E2109
Suitland, MD  20746-2863
301-238-3700 ext: 169
Fax: 301-238-3709


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 15:51
                Distributed: Wednesday, January 23, 2002
                       Message Id: cdl-15-51-009
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