The present work investigates the applicability of nonlinear imaging microscopy for the precise assessment of degradation of the outer protective layers of painted artworks as a function of depth due to aging. Two fresh and artificially aged triterpenoid varnishes, dammar and mastic, were tested. Nonlinear imaging techniques have been employed as a new diagnostic tool for determination of the exact thickness of the affected region due to artificial aging of the natural varnishes. The measured thicknesses differ from the calculated mean penetration depths of the samples. These nondestructive, high resolution modalities are valuable analytical tools for aging studies and they have the potential to provide unique in-depth information. Single photon laser induced fluorescence measurements and Raman spectroscopy were used for the integrated investigation and analysis of aging effects in varnishes.

6201 aluminum alloy is mostly used in electrical conductors for overhead transmission lines due to its excellent mechanical and electrical properties besides to an excellent corrosion resistance. This alloy is heat treatable and the thermal treatment is performed with the objective of obtain the optimal properties for its application. In this work it was studied the effect of different deformation grades, time variation of natural aging as well as the time and temperature of artificial aging on the evolution of mechanical and electrical properties. It was found that solution treated wires at 560°C by 4h, 14 days natural aged, 92% cold deformed and artificial aged at 165°C by 7h, reach a tensile stress of 326 MPa and an electrical conductivity of 57.2%IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard).