Most metal artifacts are unearthed after being buried for a long period of time.  When unearthed, corrosion actually starts again at an accelerated rate as the objects react with corrosive agents such as oxygen and water. Conservation treatment is a process of preserving the original form by stopping the chemical reaction of metal objects with corrosive agents.

At CAL-IN & COBEAL, we photograph and record all corroded objects prior to treatment. Objects covered with dirt and corrosive agents are x-rayed to identify the manufacturing technique, gold/silver inlaying on the surface and signs of repair, and these findings are used for conservation treatment. Materials of objects and corrosive agents are analyzed and studied using fluorescent x-ray analyzers and x-ray diffractometers. These methods are used to collect accurate data on objects that are not visible to the naked eye to determine conservation methods and plans.

CAL-IN works with curators in the cleaning (removal of corrosive agents and foreign materials).