School of Historical and Philosophical Studies - Research Publications

Permanent URI for this collection

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1

In-situ, non-invasive investigation of an outdoor wooden sculpture

Brodie, G ; Harris, E ; Farrell, P ; TSE, NA ; Roberts, A ; KVANSAKUL, J (International Council of Museums, 2014-09-14)

This paper reports on the development of a radio- frequency sensor unit for the non-invasive monitoring of Bruce Armstrong’s outdoor wooden sculpture constructed from River Red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis). This technique collects realtime data in situ in outdoor environments. Sensor units employing electromagnetic radiation in the microwave to radio frequency part of the spectrum can detect moisture changes, mould growth and termite infestation in specimen Australian timbers used in works of art. Model experiments using wood samples showed that moisture changes,decay levels, invasion of wood by insects such as termites and wood deterioration due to fungal attack can be detected with both ‘look through’ and radar-based microwave sensors. The monitoring provided information on the time response, temporal and cyclic activity of an outdoor, exposed wooden sculpture to moisture. A radio-frequency sensor is applicable for the monitoring of cultural materials to inform damage functions and dose values.