Engineering student uses computer models to help Smithsonian preserve art; figures out why Mona Lisa is cracked

Engineering and art came together as one discipline for a University of Michigan mechanical engineering student who used computer modeling to help set new guidelines for how the Smithsonian stores art—and believes he has even determined why the Mona Lisa keeps deteriorating despite its controlled environment.
The larger findings from junior Evan Quasney’s summer-long research internship at the Smithsonian Center for Materials Research and Education found that two long-time practices in art preservation actually causes more harm that good.