Join researchers, professionals, craftsmen, and industry experts for three days of knowledge exchange, live demonstration, and collaboration.
Seats are limited, be quick to REGISTER
Curaçao’s historic buildings are continuously exposed to a challenging marine environment, where salt crystallization is one of the leading causes of deterioration of masonry and plasterwork. To address this issue, the Saltcura project investigates innovative solutions that can improve the long-term preservation of the island’s built heritage.
Saltcura aims to explore whether and how newly developed prototype mortars with enhanced resistance to salt damage can be applied in the conservation and restoration of heritage buildings in Curaçao. Through research, testing, and practical evaluation, the project seeks to determine the suitability of these materials for local climatic conditions and historic construction techniques.
Saltcura brings together expertise from both the Netherlands and Curaçao. The project is coordinated by Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and is carried out in partnership with Stichting Monumentenzorg Curaçao and Stichting Monumentenfonds Curaçao, in collaboration with the University of Curaçao.
By combining scientific research with local heritage conservation practice, SaltCura aims to contribute to more durable restoration interventions and strengthen the resilience of Curaçao’s historic buildings against salt-related deterioration.
Wed, 21 Oct 2026 – Afternoon Symposium & Reception
♦ University of Curaçao
⊕ 13:30 – 17:00 Symposium
⊕ 17:00 – 18:00 Reception
Scientific presentations and discussions on salt damage and innovative mortar solutions in a Caribbean context.
Thu, 22 Oct 2026 – On-site Demonstration (with craftsman)
♦ Scharlooweg 150 (Pachi de Sola)
⊕ 09:00 – 10:00 Demonstration
Live application of innovative mortar on a test wall. Craftsmen and researchers work together. Exchange of practical knowledge and feedback.
Fri, 23 Oct 2026 – Stakeholder Session
♦ University of Curaçao
⊕ 08:30 – 12:00 Stakeholder Session
Bringing together researchers, industry experts, contractors, and advisors for technical discussions, opportunities for local production & application towards an implementation roadmap.
Who should attend?
- Researchers & Academics
- Industry Professionals & Contractors
- Craftsmen & Heritage Specialists
- Policy Makers & Advisors
- Students & Interested Stakeholders