Recovery of Art Nouveau European architecture: materials, technologies, degradation and conservation strategies

Modern architecture, dating back the end of XIX and the beginning of XX century, represents an important cultural heritage, being threatened by rough or unsuitable restoration works. For the safeguard of this heritage, a detailed diagnostic survey of the materials and technologies of the period, an investigation about their interaction with the urban polluted environment and the setting up of compatible restoration protocols are strongly needed. Although modern architecture had different features in Europe, a common methodological approach should be outlined, in order to promote sensible and compatible restoration and maintenance works all over Europe.