Mineral paints have played a significant role in architectural history of the XIX and XX centuries due to their reputation of durability, weather resistance, and unique aesthetic qualities. An understanding of their properties and behavior over time is crucial to planning proper conservation strategies. 

The Chair has recently received a private donation of more than 100 Keimfarben products in their original packaging. Likely from the 1970s, the Keimfarben products are under investigation by the insiTUMlab in order to disclose their composition through a set of complementary analytical methods. Collaboration with Prof. Dr. Sohyun Park of the Department of Geo- and Environmental Sciences at the LMU is supporting the characterization and quantification of the mineralogical phases. The “secret” of the Keimfarben silicate paint system has not yet been fully uncovered and the current investigation represents the first step towards its understanding. 

Preliminary results are presented in the Master thesis “A narrative of materiality: compositional characterization of historical Keimfarben pigments admixture” by Yee Wu (Supervisors Prof. Dr. Thomas Danzl and Prof. Dr. Sohyun Park).