Decorative Coatings on Tinplate Toys: Technical Study, Material, and Conservation of Portuguese Toys (1920-1960) 

This master’s thesis investigates the technical, material, and conservation aspects of Portuguese tinplate toys produced between 1920 and 1960—a largely understudied heritage characterized by complex painted coatings that are especially vulnerable to corrosion. The research integrates detailed material and technical characterization of these objects with an assessment of their conservation state and the interactions between the metal substrate, interface layers, and paint films.

Building on this analytical foundation, the study aims to develop and validate safer, more controlled cleaning methodologies. These approaches—based on the experimental application of gels and soaps—will be tested through a representative case study.

Ultimately, the project seeks to advance scientific knowledge of painted tinplate coatings and to propose appropriate cleaning strategies that support the effective preservation of this important cultural heritage.

Supervisors: Isabel Tissot (LIBPhys) e Marta Manso (LIBPhys)