SIST EN 17036:2018

Overview

SIST EN 17036:2018 is a European standard developed by CEN focusing on the conservation of cultural heritage, specifically targeting the artificial ageing of porous inorganic materials through simulated solar radiation. The standard provides a precise methodology to evaluate the long-term susceptibility to light of both untreated and treated porous inorganic materials commonly found in cultural heritage objects. These materials include natural stones like rocks, as well as artificial stone products such as mortars, bricks, stuccoes, and ceramics.

This standard is essential for conservation scientists and professionals aiming to test the durability and longevity of various conservation treatments-ranging from cleaning agents, consolidants, water repellents, coatings, to biocides-by subjecting materials to controlled and repeatable artificial solar radiation. It enables systematic assessment of effects such as color changes or material degradation due to light exposure, contributing to informed decisions about the most appropriate conservation methods.

Key Topics

• Artificial Ageing Technique
  SIST EN 17036:2018 outlines the use of artificial ageing by simulated solar radiation, favoring well-controlled variables over naturally variable weathering. It uses sources such as Xenon lamps combined with filters to replicate daylight's spectral distribution while limiting infrared and ultraviolet-B radiation.

• Test Equipment Requirements
  The standard details necessary equipment including:

  • Radiation sources simulating solar spectrum
  • Infrared (short-pass) and ultraviolet (long-pass) filters
  • Radiometers for precise irradiance measurements
  • Exposure racks ensuring uniform light distribution
  • Temperature control systems maintaining specimen surface temperature close to 40 ± 2 °C

• Test Procedure
  Specimens-often prepared with flat surfaces and minimum size requirements-are exposed to controlled irradiation for prescribed durations. Results are recorded as a function of radiant exposure (J/m²), allowing comparison across different setups.

• Evaluation and Reporting
  The standard provides clear guidance on documenting test conditions, specimen details, treatment types, equipment settings, environmental parameters (temperature, humidity), and resulting material changes. This ensures reproducibility and consistency.

Applications

SIST EN 17036:2018 is invaluable within the cultural heritage conservation field, especially for:

• Assessing Conservation Treatments
  Testing waters, consolidants, coatings, and biocides to predict their stability and colorfastness under light exposure before applying on invaluable heritage assets.

• Material Selection
  Comparing treated versus untreated porous inorganic materials to decide suitable conservation strategies for stonework, historic bricks, ceramics, and mortars.

• Quality Control and Research
  Supporting conservation scientists and manufacturers in developing durable materials with long-lasting performance when exposed to sunlight or indoor lighting conditions.

• Preventive Conservation Planning
  Informing exhibition lighting choices and environmental controls for heritage display settings.

Related Standards

Users of SIST EN 17036:2018 should consider familiarity with related standards and technical guidelines in cultural heritage conservation:

• EN 16085: Methodology for sampling cultural property materials prior to testing
• EN 13373: Determination of geometric characteristics of natural stone units
• EN 15898: General terms and definitions for conservation of cultural property
• EN 16581: Laboratory test methods for evaluating water repellent products on porous inorganic materials
• CEN/TS 16163: Guidelines for lighting conditions in indoor exhibitions to minimize deterioration

Further reference to international guidelines such as ISO 21348 (solar irradiance determination) and resources on accelerated ageing enhances understanding and application of this standard.

By implementing SIST EN 17036:2018, conservation professionals gain a robust, standardized approach to simulate and assess the durability of porous inorganic materials under solar radiation, enabling protection and preservation of cultural heritage with scientific rigor and confidence.