Analytical and Metal Division
Overview
The Analytical and Metal Division, NRLC is engaged in the scientific study, analysis, and conservation of metallic cultural heritage objects. The division focuses on understanding the composition, manufacturing technology, degradation mechanisms, and conservation techniques of archaeological and historical metallic artifacts. Through advanced analytical tools and interdisciplinary research, the division provides scientific support for heritage conservation practices across the country. The division develops and evaluates conservation strategies, preventive measures, and treatment protocols tailored to diverse categories of metallic objects, including copper alloys, iron, and artifacts.
Research Areas
The division undertakes specialised research and applied studies in the following areas:
- Archaeometallurgy — study of ancient metallurgical practices, manufacturing technologies, and material characterisation of cultural metallic artifacts
- Corrosion and Coating Studies — investigation of the corrosion behaviour of metals and alloys, and development and evaluation of protective coatings for conservation purposes
- Scientific Analysis of Cultural Artifacts — elemental and structural characterisation of metallic objects using advanced instrumental techniques to aid conservation and authentication
Our Team
The employees working at present in the Biodeterioration Division:
| S. No. | Name of the Employee | Designation | Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dr. Preeti Verma | Scientist-B | Ph.D. in Metallurgical Engineering, IIT (BHU) |
| 2 | Mr. Shailesh B | Senior Scientific Assistant | M.Sc. in Materials Science, Mangalore University |
| 3 | Mr. Apurv Raj | MTS | B.Sc. in Chemistry |
Scientific Instruments
The Division has various facilities, including:
| S. No. | Equipment Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Electrochemical Workstation |
| 2 | Upright Metallurgical Microscope |
| 3 | Salt Spray |
| 4 | Stereo Zoom Microscope |
| 5 | Microhardness Tester |
| 6 | UV Visible Spectrometer |
| 7 | Melting Furnace |
| 8 | Muffle Furnace |
| 9 | Oven |
| 10 | Double Distillation Unit |
| 11 | Scratch Tester |
| 12 | Coating Gauge Thickness |
| 13 | Ultrasonic Cleaner |
| 14 | Digital pH meter |
| 15 | Metal Sample Polishing Unit |
| 16 | Hot Mounting Press |
| 17 | Slow Speed Diamond Cutter |
Photographs of the Equipment
Electrochemical Workstation
Upright Metallurgical Microscope
Salt Spray
Stereo Zoom Microscope
Microhardness Tester
UV Visible Spectrometer
Muffle Furnace
Oven
Double Distillation Unit
Ultrasonic Cleaner
Digital pH Meter
Metal Sample Polishing Unit