The Effect of Exposure Condition on the Composition of the Corrosion Layers of the San Carlone of Arona

Abstract

The Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo, named San Carlone for its large dimensions, represents a unique opportunity to study the long-term effects of atmospheric corrosion on patina formation on historic copper sheets. The sculpture’s large dimensions, complex geometry, direct visitor interaction, and exposure conditions generate different microclimates. The purpose of this study is to understand how and to what extent these microclimates affect the formation of the copper patinas. The results show that microclimates play a key role in patina formation: in external surfaces exposed to rain, the main constituent is brochantite, whereas a wider variety of corrosion products have been found in sheltered and internal surfaces, such as antlerite, atacamite, copper oxalate, posnjakite, and anglesite.