The exposure of colors used in artworks to ultraviolet
(UV) and visible light in the presence of oxidizing agents triggers
color degradation, fading and yellowing. These degradation
mechanisms can lead to irreversible alteration of artworks.
Protective varnishes and coatings currently used to protect art
paintings are not acceptable solutions, since their removal
requires the use of solvents, which can affect adversely the
underlying work surface.