About INTK

The Institute for Natural Sciences and Technology in the Arts (INTK) is responsible for the theoretical and practice-oriented transfer of knowledge in the subjects of color and perception theory, color chemistry, materials science, materials ecology, and microbiology in art. The focus is on both historical and contemporary materials and their analysis by state-of-the-art technologies. Important focal points in teaching are the chemistry of inorganic and organic materials applied in art, their chemical analysis and the deterioration phenomena, the documentation of art objects, and the diagnosis of microbially caused damage.

Cultural objects, especially works of art, are constantly at risk of irreversible damage due to environmental influences resulting from pollution and climate change both outdoors and in collections. These objects are inevitably exposed to the ambient atmosphere, which can initiate processes on the artwork's surface, leading to severe material damages or even total destruction. The long-term stability of materials in the field of heritage science is tested by systematic investigations and weathering or light tests. Above all, methods of modern surface analysis are used, which make it possible to detect material changes already in the nanometer range.

A newly established focus in research and teaching at INTK is the study of interactions between microorganisms - mold, bacteria, archaea, algae, lichens - and materials. The use of the latest molecular biological methods from genomics and transcriptomics allows the complete recording of microbial communities and their properties with regard to the modification and aging of materials.