An investigation on the influence of side-chain fluorination on the performance of a series of acrylic-based copolymers as protective coating materials for stones has been carried out by comparing them with unfluorinated polymeric analogues. For this purpose, a series of copolymers of 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecyl methacrylate (XFDM) and 2,2,2 trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFEM) with unfluorinated vinyl ether or acrylic comonomers have been synthesized, as well as their not fluorinated analogues, and applied to limestone and marble substrates. A silicone-type commercial product, widely employed in the protection of stones in buildings and other artifacts, has also been tested as a reference material. Their protection efficiencies were then comparatively evaluated in terms of surface properties, water permeability, and appearance. It is shown that the presence of fluorine always has, as expected, a positive influence on the protective action of the polymer, increasing the water repellency of the coated stone.

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Applications of time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy (TRPL) and fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) to the analysis of cultural heritage are presented. Examples range from historic wall paintings and stone sculptures to 20th century iconic design objects. A detailed description of the instrumentation developed and employed for analysis in the laboratory or in situ is given. Both instruments rely on a pulsed laser source coupled to a gated detection system, but differ in the type of information they provide. Applications of FLIM to the analysis of model samples and for the in-situ monitoring of works of art range from the analysis of organic materials and pigments in wall paintings, the detection of trace organic substances on stone sculptures, to the mapping of luminescence in late 19th century paintings. TRPL and FLIM are employed as sensors for the detection of the degradation of design objects made in plastic. Applications and avenues for future research are suggested.

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