Solid State Lighting systems for application in museums

This thesis presents the results of an experimental study dealing with conservation of artefacts and visual perception for visitors when Solid State Lighting (SSL) is used in museums. The characterization of white LED sources with different spectral distribution has been carried out, focussing on colour rendering properties and potential damage for museum collections. Conservative aspects have been further investigated with experimental series on fading of light-responsivity materials, showing the suitability of LEDs with respect to traditional light sources such as dichroic halogen lamps. The study on visual comfort and perception of artworks under SSL has been conducted through objective and subjective evaluations of different LED system configurations within a typical museum showcase. The results have demonstrated the potential suitability of LED lighting for this application, but also outlined some drawbacks with respect to lighting quality and visibility of displayed objects.