The IMAT: a new performance tool for heat transfer and innovative applications for art conservation

The creation of new improved conservation materials and sophisticated instrumentation is of fundamental importance in the advancement of the best practices in the field of art conservation. Yet the tools currently available to conservators for heat transfer, an essential element for success in most structural treatments of paintings, works on paper, textiles and other cultural heritage assets, has remained relatively unchanged in recent decades. The Intelligewnt Mobile Multipurpose Accurate Thermo-Electrical devisce (IMAT) Research Project (2011-2014) responds to this need, filling a critical gap in the conservator's toolbox for an instrument that provides accuracy, selectivity and portability when the application of heat is required.