What is conservation science?

‘Conservation science’ or ‘cultural heritage research’ is defined through a discussion of research needs, training and employment patterns world-wide, and trends in published work. Parallels with mainstream polymer science are drawn throughout. Some aspects are discussed in more detail: traditional paint composites; studies in modern, synthetic, paint composites; the relevance of accelerated ageing to a range of polymer types. ‘Conservation science’ or ‘cultural heritage research’ is defined through a discussion of research needs, training and employment patterns world-wide, and trends in published work. Parallels with mainstream polymer science are drawn throughout. Some aspects are discussed in more detail: traditional paint composites; studies in modern, synthetic, paint composites; the relevance of accelerated ageing to a range of polymer types. ‘Conservation science’ or ‘cultural heritage research’ is defined through a discussion of research needs, training and employment patterns world-wide, and trends in published work. Parallels with mainstream polymer science are drawn throughout. Some aspects are discussed in more detail: traditional paint composites; studies in modern, synthetic, paint composites; the relevance of accelerated ageing to a range of polymer types.