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Showing 15 results for Iron

Mahdi Razani, Alireza Baghbanan , Seyed Mohammad Amin Emami,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (9-2018)
Abstract

This study aims to utilize qualitative assessments derived from environmental evaluations and field tests to document the current state of damage, determine strength, and measure hardness in the external surfaces of the rock-cut architecture of the historic village of Kandovan, identifying and ranking the most significant damage factors. Environmental assessment forms were used for documenting the pathology, while a Schmidt hammer (Type L) was employed for qualitative field tests. The entire village was surveyed at 143 points. The results indicate that human activities are the primary cause of deterioration in Kandovan, with the hardness of the rock-cut surfaces classified as weak to very weak. The severe erosion of the outer surfaces of the rock houses is notable. Based on the data, the village was zoned into areas of low, moderate, and severe weathering in terms of surface strength, reflecting the extent of deterioration. Areas with greater exposure to water flows exhibit severe erosion and weathering, while those with less exposure to watercourses are classified as less weathered.

Shahnaz Bohlouli , Mohammad Ghahri ,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract

The manuscripts kept in the manuscript archive of the National Archives and Library of Iran are mostly unique and have special historical and cultural importance. One of the main reasons for the deterioration of manuscripts and books is biological factors, mainly microscopic fungi. The method used in the National Archives and Library of Iran to eliminate biological contamination is disinfection with ethylene oxide. The duration of the disinfecting effects of ethylene oxide gas has always been one of the concerns of this organization and is the aim of this research, during which the disinfecting effect of the mentioned substance has been investigated over a period of 4 years. 107 samples were examined by scraping and culturing in a specific fungal culture medium, and the relationship between their type of contamination with the environmental conditions of storage and the contamination of the manuscripts before disinfection has been discussed. The results showed that although 86.67% of the samples still showed contamination and only 13.43% remained free of contamination, this contamination was different from their initial contamination. Therefore, disinfection with ethylene oxide over a period of 4 years had a good effect because the initial contamination was eliminated and did not grow again after this period of time, and the observed contamination was of the type of environmental contamination that was added to the documents.

Parastoo Erfanmanesh, Hamid Fadaei,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract

One of the most widely used terms in the conservation and restoration of cultural and historical artifacts, particularly in the field of ancient metal objects, is patina. Although, this term is also applied to other historical materials, such as paintings and stones, its frequent used in the context of ancient bronzes makes it essential to develop a clear and accurate understanding of its meaning and implications. From the perspective of the studying deterioration of the artifacts, patina-as corrosion products in bronze artifacts-can significantly impact both the tangible and intangible aspects of the objects. on the one hand, it contributes certain values, such as age and aesthetics. On the other hand, it serves as an important criterion in conservation and restoration practices. However, the lack of comprehensive and precise definition of this term leads to complexity in conservation decision-making. In this paper, based on a literature review, the differing and similarity viewpoints on patina have been investigated. Following this, the term is reviewed in relation to different corrosion morphologies, and issue related to its current definitions are discussed. The different values of the patina are debated, and its role in the principles of conservation is reevaluated. In this field, confusion arising from the application of the term patina in the conservation of archaeological bronzes have been highlighted. Finally, considering the unique properties of corrosion phenomena in archaeological bronzes, the concept of the “original surface” is discussed as an approach to addressing this issue.  

Faezeh Asaadi ,
Volume 2, Issue 3 (1-2020)
Abstract

Zilu, a traditional mat characterized by a firm texture, smooth surface, and lint-free quality, has origins predating Islam. The warp and weft used in Zilu weaving are typically made of cotton and dyed with natural materials. The unique weaving techniques and patterns distinguish Zilu from rugs and other tapestries. This craft was registered on Iran's National Heritage List in 2011 (1390 in the Persian calendar) under registration number 246. Currently, a section of the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai in Maybod is dedicated to a museum showcasing Zilu. The Zilus displayed in the museum, some of which are approximately 500 years old, are often in poor condition and highly susceptible to damage from environmental factors such as moisture, dust, air pollutants, light, and temperature fluctuations. This study is based on the premise that dust, influenced by the local climate, is a primary factor contributing to the deterioration of Zilus in Maybod. The research aims to identify harmful environmental factors affecting the museum's Zilus and propose methods to mitigate their damaging effects. The primary objective is to enhance the preservation of these historical and cultural artifacts. The current storage conditions in the museum are inadequate, and the continuation of these conditions could result in irreparable damage to these valuable objects. The study seeks to identify environmental factors causing damage to the museum's Zilus through comprehensive environmental monitoring. Data were collected from library research, field observations, and laboratory analysis, employing both empirical and analytical methods. Field studies focused on monitoring the museum's environmental conditions and comparing them to international standards. The findings indicate that the museum's environmental conditions are substandard, with dust and temperature fluctuations identified as significant contributors to deterioration. Notably, human factors were found to cause the most substantial damage.

Hamid Reza Bakhshandehfard, Hosna Rabeie,
Volume 3, Issue 1 (6-2020)
Abstract

The cemetery of the Pardis Tepe, located in Qarchak of Tehran province, is a valuable historic landmark of the Iron Age which has been discovered in the excavations of these bronze wire objects. Despite the historical importance of the metal objects discovered in Tehran, no independent research has been carried out on the metal objects obtained from this site, in terms of technological and pathological aspects, using laboratory and methodological methods. The aim of this paper was to study a bronze rod found in Tepe Pardis, in terms of species and application, regarding technical questions about elemental combinations and the method of making and technological position of the study area. For this purpose, instrumental analysis methods such as AAS, SEM-EDS were used to identify the alloying technique, the chemical composition of the alloy, and metallography to identify the manufacturing method. Historical studies of the object attributed it to the Iron Age. Based on elemental data analysis, the composition used to make copper-tin alloy objects (bronze) and microstructure analysis by metallography, these objects were made by continuous thermal / mechanical operations. Depending on the results of the XRD test, cuprite, malachite and nantokite compounds were identified in corrosion products. Due to the significant presence of Nantokite, it can be said that the object has active corrosion.

Sahar Noohi, Manijeh Hadian Dehkordi,
Volume 3, Issue 3 (12-2020)
Abstract

This research is an exploration of the environmental conditions for preserving photographic glass plates in storage and how environmental parameters influence each other. Understanding the extent to which environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity, pollutants, and light can interact with one another—and recognizing that they cannot be assessed independently—can play a critical role in establishing suitable environmental conditions for these works, especially photographic glass plates. Based on conducted studies, photographic glass plates are subject to serious damage risks similar to other visual artworks and sometimes even more so. Given the historical and artistic value of these pieces, as well as their potential utility as documents providing valuable information, it becomes clear why preventive conservation measures for this category of artifacts are vital, especially considering that treatment and restoration processes can be extremely challenging or even impossible.The aim of this research is to introduce standard and appropriate environmental conditions for the preservation of photographic glass plates.The content presented in this article results from studies and observations derived from reviewing relevant literature on the topic while also taking into account the condition of existing works within collections dedicated to glass-based photography. This study identifies appropriate environmental conditions including temperature, humidity, light levels, and permissible pollutant thresholds for this category of artworks. Additionally, it examines how these various environmental parameters relate to one another and affect each other’s impact. At the same time, it addresses ways to control these environmental factors and prevent certain damages that may occur when suitable conditions are not maintained.

Mohammad Yaghizayi, Mehdi Razani, Atefeh Fazel Najafabadi,
Volume 5, Issue 2 (9-2022)
Abstract

The pathology of pottery works is considered one of the most fundamental pillars of conservation and restoration, as understanding the damage will pave the way for its preservation and restoration. Pottery works are generally more stable than many other materials found in archaeological excavations. However, when these works are buried in inappropriate conditions and unfavorable factors, they can suffer from significant damage. Without proper care in their protection, the result may be complete deterioration of the pottery. Damage to ceramic bodies occurs in two forms: Physical and chemical, along with mechanical factors, can accelerate these processes. In the pathology of clay bodies, it is essential to identify the origins and causes of these damages to implement the effective treatments aimed to enhance the longevity of the ceramics., In the pathology of clay bodies, we can refer to cracks, fractures, crystallization of various salts, damages from firing processes, biological damages, stains, delamination, and more. This research, will provide an overview of the most prevalent damages of clay bodies and the factors that cause them, and the relationship between the formation of one type of damage and its influence on the emergence of other damages. Recognizing these connections can inform more effective methods for the protection and restoration of pottery artifacts.

Fatemeh Alimirzaei, Gholamreza Rahmani,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract

The Iron Age in Iran (550-1450 BC) and beyond, represents a period characterized by significant social, cultural, economic and technological transformations during its evolutionary stages. Zavarehvar is an Iron Age settlement site located in the Varamin plain in central region of Iran, where numerous excavations have been carried out by various archeologists in recent decades. During the 2017 excavation at the Zavarehvar site, a number of gray pottery pieces related to burials were discovered. Given the distribution of the Iron Age cemeteries and the limited technical studies conducted on these potteries, our understanding of the production methods such as texture, components, and manufacturing processes is crucial for comprehending the pottery production technology of this specific period. Therefore, the results from laboratory studies can be beneficial in finding the production process of these artifacts. This research aimed to provide more precise knowledge for conducting comparative studies and determining the local origin of these artifacts by examining nine Iron Age pottery samples from this region using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and petrographic analysis of thin sections. The results indicated that the main phases of the potteries, based on petrography, include quartz (SiO2), and calcite. The ICP-MS results also largely confirmed some of the petrographic observations. However, a significant part of the chemical clustering of ceramics was not due to heterogeneity in elemental composition, nor to differences in the clay sources used. Additionally, we can say that the potteries are local origin, since the soils studied showed significant similarities in trace elements with the pottery samples, confirming their local origin.

Seyed Iraj Beheshti, Sheyda Ashrafi, Siamak Sarlak,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract

Petrographic studies play a significant role in understanding the structural characteristics and compositions of ceramic artifacts, contributing to the identification of cultural transformations and exchanges based on technical changes in these objects. As such, it is consistently a central component of studies on analyzable artifacts. The archaeological site of Qoli Darvish, located 3 km south of the city of Qom, spans over an area of approximately 30 hectares and contains valuable archaeological remains, including distinctive types of pottery ranging from the Early Bronze Age to Iron Age I. In this study, aimed at investigating the texture, components, and classification of the pottery, 37 pieces of ceramic artifacts discovered during the 2015 excavations were analyzed. Thin-section petrographic analysis, focusing on identifying microscopic structures and existing minerals, was used for this purpose. The results revealed three distinct textures in the pottery samples: coarse-grained heterogeneous or porphyritic texture, fine-grained or silty texture, and clastic texture. The clay matrix of these ceramics shows minimal sorting of its components and contains grog and coarse fillers. Various igneous rock fragments, grog (remnants of silt, clay, or crushed ceramics), calcite, and quartz are visible in the samples. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the materials used in the production of these ceramics were generally local and sourced from the surrounding region.

Tahereh Shihebori, Elahe Khakbaz Alvandiyan,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract

Historical monuments have always had a special place in historical-cultural studies as one of the indicators of identifying the cultural heritage of nations. The following paper aims to present a report on the restoration andconservation of metal objects of the cultural heritage treasure of Yazd city. Protection of this treasure which is one of the richest collections in terms of the variety of historical works, which put the restoration and conservation of the present objects on the agenda in the past years, and restoration and conservation operations were carried out on these valuable works. For this purpose, an effort was performed in this research during 7 years at different times to select metal objects with special features from this rich collection, and its report is presented in this article. Various types of objects such as silver, iron, and bronze objects were restored and protected. Improper maintenance conditions in the past have caused these works to be covered by environmental sediments or corrosion products, which sediments and corrosion products cause the illegibility of designs and patterns and sometimes the complete destruction of objects. So, in the operation procedure of restoration and conservation observing theoretical principles, cleaning operation was done as far as possible mechanically and chemically if needed. Low percentages of consumable materials were used and materials were selected that do not harm the environment as much as possible. The most important step after the restoration operation is the conservation of objects in desirable conditions and periodic reviews, so that if any damage is observed, it should be repaired immediately. The following paper describes the steps of restoration and conservation of metal objects of different types and protects them to keep them in standard conditions to be shown in the museum.
 
Negar Raeisnia, Mohammad Haddadi,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

Environmental factors have a key role in increasing the durability of documented and written heritage. Therefore, in order to create favorable environmental conditions in archives and libraries, it is necessary to determine the goals related to environmental management to meet the preservation needs of these collections; and protective measures (to prevent or slow down the process of deterioration of materials) in these institutions should be planned and implemented. The most important environmental factors affecting the durability of library and archive collections include temperature, relative humidity, light, airborne particles, chemical gases, and biological factors. Control and regulation of these factors is the most cost-effective way to increase the useful life of collections. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the environmental conditions continuously, by recording and processing the data. In this study, the requirements, optimal scope, and preventive protection measures contained in some standards and guidelines for the protection and  maintenance of archival and library materials have been investigated. The aim is ensuring the safe preservation of materials and objects sensitive to deterioration. It seems that physical, chemical, and biological mechanisms depend on temperature and humidity which affect the collections in different ways. So, it is impossible to find a safe temperature and humidity range for all collections. Establishing international standards should be recognized as
a long-term strategy that helps to raise the quality of protection processes and improve resource protection knowledge. Based on the studies and experiences gained, the permissible limits can be determined which depend on the material's physical condition, its proper durability over time, and the environmental conditions of storage during the historical period.

Nasrin Noohi Babajan, Farah Madani, Manijeh Hadian Dehkordi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

Valuable cultural heritage is always exposed to the invasion of biological agents and the resulting destruction, especially when the physical and chemical conditions of the work and its surrounding environment are compatible with the characteristics of an organism or a microorganism. Therefore, preventing the occurrence of such conditions and limiting the invasion of biological agents should be among the main and primary goals of every center. Over the years, various methods such as the use of disinfectants have been used to control biological agents in various historical and cultural collections. With the passage of time and increasing awareness of the harmful effects of these substances on the treated works, the environment and the users, nowadays the use of non-toxic alternative methods is more recommended. Experience has shown that the method that causes the least damage to collections and employees is preventive methods and regular control, which is possible through monitoring and managing the environment. Integrated pest management with the ultimate goal of removing harmful biological agents from a place is one of the long-term preventives and non-toxic methods of controlling biological agents that is used in many museums, archives, and libraries. In this article, along with a brief overview of biological deterioration and its preventive and control strategies, microbiological monitoring of the air inside 4 storerooms in the world heritage complex of Golestan Palace Museum including: the anthropological clothing, the manuscripts, the carpets, and the Painting storerooms was carried out. For this purpose, air sampling was done by sedimentation method and isolated microbial colonies on the culture media were investigated and identified. The results of the microbiological monitoring of the air inside the storerooms in this study showed that except for the carpet storeroom, other studied storerooms, including the anthropological clothing, the manuscript and the painting storerooms, are acceptable in terms of the number of microorganisms in the air.

Farideh Majidi Khameneh,
Volume 8, Issue 3 (11-2025)
Abstract

Outdoor sculptures, as part of cultural heritage, in addition to beautifying cities, play an important role in conveying messages to observers and giving identity to passages, and constitute an important part of art history. The durability of these structures is threatened by atmospheric, human and environmental factors and they are subject to erosion over time. Birds and their droppings are a serious threat to these sculptures and cause numerous damages and corrosion. Even after restoration and spending time and money, this threat remains. The main research question is about what are the solutions and patterns of indigenous knowledge for repelling birds. With the aim of recognizing environmental rationality and extracting patterns, 50 ethnographic reports in the field of indigenous knowledge were examined using meta-synthesis and content analysis methods. Based on the findings, these patterns include:1- Pattern of deprivation of nesting, settlement and food. 2- Pattern of sound phobia. 3- Pattern of fear of moving objects. 4- Pattern of staring at birds' eyes. 5- Pattern of color phobia (birds' fear of a specific color) and 6- Pattern of odor phobia (birds' fear of a specific smell). The research results help to identify areas of synergy between anthropological studies, knowledge of historical preservation, and urban design, and indicate the flexibility of heritage knowledge to solve new problems, as well as the high levels of environmental understanding of indigenous scholars. This rationality is the result of centuries of experience in other areas of life, such as agriculture and gardening, in combating bird damage. Native methods are environmentally friendly, economical, accessible, sustainable and renewable compared to modern methods of bird control.

Hamid Amanollahi , Hassan Karimian , Fatemeh Sheikh Ahmadi,
Volume 8, Issue 3 (11-2025)
Abstract

Takht-e Soleyman, located in a mountainous area of northwestern Iran, is one of the country’s most important historical and cultural centers and has been studied from various scientific perspectives. This research aims to identify the environmental characteristics influencing human settlement and to examine the impacts of climatic and environmental conditions on the preservation of historical monuments. Findings indicate that the large spring of Takht-e Soleyman and several karst springs, by providing mineral-rich water, have played a significant role in the formation of settlements and the chemical composition of the soil, thereby affecting the region’s biodiversity and vegetation cover. Adequate precipitation has further enriched the vegetation and created favorable habitats for various animal species. The main objectives of this study include identifying the environmental potentials that contributed to settlement formation and proposing adaptive strategies to local climatic conditions for the conservation, restoration, and management of the complex. Given Takht-e Soleyman’s specific climate—characterized by long winters and heavy snowfall—the key question is how to ensure effective preservation of its historical assets. The research methodology is historical and descriptive-analytical, combining library studies with field observations. Comparative analysis of climatic parameters such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, and solar radiation against international standards revealed that, if properly managed, certain climatic indices can help mitigate physical deterioration of the monuments. Accordingly, practical strategies based on quantitative and qualitative indicators have been proposed to reduce adverse environmental impacts. By integrating historical, architectural, and environmental data, this study highlights the critical role of environmental studies in safeguarding archaeological sites—particularly Takht-e Soleyman—and offers scientific and practical solutions to ensure the sustainable preservation of this valuable heritage.

Elaheh Hajjari, Mohammad Mortazavi, Keyvan Raeissi, Mohammad Hafezi Kahnamoei ,
Volume 8, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract

The inherent instability of archaeological iron objects is due to contaminated with chloride ions from the burial environment, as well as being exposed to oxygen and high relative humidity. Therefore, the removal of chloride ions and the stabilization of active corrosion are essential steps to prevent further deterioration and to preserve these artefacts. Numerous scholars have investigated various methods for the dechlorination of archaeological irons. However, the complexity of the corrosion mechanisms, the varying condition under which artefacts were buried, the specific characteristic of each object, and the ethical principles of conservation and restoration confront conservation scientists with significant challenges. As a result, from the earliest research in this field to the present day, studies in the subjects are still ongoing. A meticulous review of the literature can lead to a better understanding of existing research findings and help identify aspects that more research is needed. The aim of this paper is to review, critique and examine each of the different chlorination methods, while also discussing their disadvantages and limitations. This review discuses different methods of chloride ions removal and stabilization of archaeological iron artefacts, including electrochemical techniques, immersion in alkaline aqueous solutions, application of subcritical fluids, hydrogen plasma, and biological treatment using bacteria. In addition, factors affecting the process before, during, and after dechlorination, as well as the specific challenges of treating large and composite objects are examined. Finally, by reviewing and comparing the studies conducted in this paper, it was found that there are still gaps in this regard, the analysis of which will ultimately lead to the application and optimization of appropriate dechlorination methods tailored to the specific characteristics of each object and its conservation conditions.


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