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Assistant Professor of Chemistry
B.S. Biochemistry, University of Washington
- Seattle, 1999
Ph.D. Chemistry, University of Wisconsin
- Madison, 2005
Postdoctoral study, Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2008
Email: claret@pdx.edu
Phone: 503-725-2887
Office: SB2-304
Lab: SB2-L71
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Research in Dr. Tami Lasseter Clare's laboratory focuses on the intersection of materials chemistry and art conservation. In general, we study newly emerging technologies in nano-materials chemistry to advance practices in the conservation of artwork. We are interested in improving the performance, reducing the environmental impact, and facilitating the commercialization of these new materials to make them widely accepted and available for use by art conservators worldwide.
Airborne pollutants, like sulfur dioxide, have a deleterious effect on outdoor artwork, such as bronze sculptures, often leading to corrosion of the metal. These effects may be mitigated by the use of protective coatings. We are currently collaborating with the Philadelphia Museum of Art to develop protective coatings for use on outdoor metalwork. Coatings for outdoor metalwork must be highly resistant to degradation by ultraviolet light and to water penetration/absorption. Because of the desire to improve air quality by reducing the amount of Volatile Organic Components (VOCs) present in coatings, we work with industrial coatings companies to evaluate and improve newly emerging commercial technologies that have low or zero VOC content. In addition, we investigate strategies to further improve coatings performance, such incorporating nanoparticles, that may harden the coatings and/or make them more resistant to water penetration/absorption.
We are also interested in supporting and collaborating with art conservators throughout the Pacific Northwest by establishing a Center for the Science of Art Conservation at Portland State University. We are currently building up the analytical capabilities of the Center. By 2011, the Center will house FT-Infrared and Raman Microscopes, X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometers, and X-radiographic/Direct Imaging capabilities. Analytical instrumentation already present at Portland State University, such as Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, Powder X-radiography, and Mass Spectrometry, will enhance the capabilities of the Center.
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