The most advanced current methodologies are (i) the use of water-based micelles and microemulsions (neat or combined
with gels) for the removal of accidental contaminants and polymers used in past restorations and (ii) the application
of calcium hydroxide nanoparticles for the consolidation of works of art. In this Account, we highlight how
conservation science can benefit from the conceptual and the methodological background derived from both soft (microemulsions
and micelles for cleaning) and hard (nanoparticles for consolidation) nanoscience.
A combination of different nanotechnologies allows today’s conservators to provide, in each restoration step, interventions
respectful of the physicochemical characteristics of the materials used by artists. The “palette” of methods
provided by nanoscience is continuously enriching the field, and the development of novel nanomaterials and the study
of nanoscale physicochemical phenomena will further improve the performance of restoration formulations and our
comprehension of degradation mechanisms.