Courses on microscopy

March 11-15, 2002
Microscopy of Protective and Decorative Coatings
Mel Wachowiak <wachowiakm [at] scmre__si__edu>
ext.169

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

    *   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.  Attendees
        will receive molds, resins and other supplies.

    *   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.

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

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

    *   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.  Attendees
will be encouraged to participate fully in dialog during lecture,
and discuss their experiences in microscopy.  Attendees are
encouraged to bring samples from their practice, and consider
bringing their own microscopes to the course.  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 stereomicroscopes and
laboratory-grade microscopes will be available, including those
equipped for brightfield, darkfield, and fluorescence.

April 8-12, 2002
Practical Wood Anatomy in a Museum Environment
Harry A. Alden, <aldenh [at] scmre__si__edu>
ext. 170

This course provides an introduction to wood anatomy of temperate
and tropical species and to their macroscopic and microscopic
identification.  Emphasis is placed on real-life applications of
analysis of samples from wooden artifacts in museum and
archaeological collections in order to identify the materials used
and their cultural contexts. Areas covered include sampling,
microtechniques, character identification and identification of
unknown woods (including charcoal) using reference sets, dichotomous
keys and computer applications.  Participants are welcome to bring
an object for analysis.

July 8-12, 2002
Polarized Light Microscopy--Fundamentals and Applications
Jan Hinsch (Leica Microsystems, Inc.)
Harry A. Alden, <aldenh [at] scmre__si__edu>
ext. 170
Mel Wachowiak <wachowiakm [at] scmre__si__edu>
ext.169

This course furnishes an in-depth look at the fundamentals of
polarized light microscopy and applications for those in museum
and/or archaeological fields.  It includes principles (wave nature
of light, isotropy, anisotropy and optical activity), mechanics and
use of polarizing microscopes, sample preparation, orthoscopy and
special methods.  This course will provide the practical application
of polarized light microscopy towards the identification of natural
fibers and artist's pigments.

Please contact Ms. Francine Lewis 301-238-3700 x102) for general
information, and class instructors for specific information about
each class.


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 15:21
                  Distributed: Friday, August 31, 2001
                       Message Id: cdl-15-21-007
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