The microscopical skills that are taught, however, are the same as for the Chemical Microscopy course. This course is intended for conservators of art objects, especially paintings, but also textiles and paper. In addition to the core features of our polarized light microscopy curriculum, this course covers methods of sampling, characterization and identification of pigments, grounds, media and fibers. Less scientific and chemical background is assumed of the students in this course. Textile Microscopy Students learn the fundamentals of polarized light microscopy and their application to the characterization and identification of hairs and fibers used in textiles.
Students characterize animal hairs, naturally occurring fibers, and man-made fibers.
Methods for collection, screening, mounting and detailed characterization of hairs and fibers are covered, but the emphasis is on microscopy. Chamot Microscopy Facility Activities of the Chamot Microscopy Facility - Modules Module 1 Physical Optics and Proper Use of the Microscope covers the optics of the microscope, setting up the microscope properly and the critical use of the microscope. It begins with the geometrical optics applicable to light microscopy, including the topics of reflection, refraction, refractive index, dispersion, lenses, and lens aberrations. Next the parts of the microscope are reviewed, explaining the image formation and Kohler illumination. Students then study how resolution and image contrast are affected by microscopical adjustments.