Characteristics Evaluation of Hobun Pigments according to Shell Types and Calcination

Abstract

In this study, the material scientific characteristics of Hobun pigments used as white inorganic pigment for traditional cultural heritage were identified according to the type of shell and calcination and evaluated the stability of the preservation environment. For the purpose of this, we collected 2 different types of Hobun pigments made by oyster and clam shell and its calcined products(at 1,150℃). Hobun pigments before calcined identified calcium carbonate such as calcite, aragonite but calcination derived changing main composition to portlandite and calcite. Results of FE-SEM showed characteristics microstructure for each shell but pigments after calcined observed porous structure. Porous granule highly caused oil adsorption according to increase specific surface area of pigments. In addition, the whiteness improved after calcined pigments compared to non-calcined pigments, and the color improvement rate of Hobun pigment (CS) which made of clam shell was higher. As a result of the accelerated weathering test, the Hobun pigmentcolored specimen had a color difference value of less than 2 after the test, which was difficult to recognize with the naked eye. In particular, the color stability has improved as the color difference value of the Hobun pigment is smaller after calcined compared to before non-calcined pigment. However, it was confirmed that the stability of the painting layer was lower in the specimen after calcined pigment. For antifungal activity test, Aspergillus niger, Tyromyces palustris and Trametes versicolor were used as test fungi, and all pigments were found to have preventive and protective effects against fungi. Especially, the antifungal effect of the calcined pigment was excellent, which is due to the stronger basicity of the pigment.