Non-Destructive Imaging and Micro-Analysis in Cultural Heritage

This new Gordon Research Conference on Scientific Methods in Cultural Heritage Research seeks to advance the frontiers of science and knowledge connected with the material components, structures and degradation processes of cultural heritage objects.

Complexity at multiple temporal and spatial scales is the defining characteristic of cultural heritage. Nanoscience, imaging, sensing and sensors design, computational modelling, and materials design need to be brought together to understand and preserve humankind’s tangible archaeological, historic and artistic patrimony. This conference seeks to foster the dialogue between those pushing the boundaries on methods and instrumentation in academia or large scale facilities, and researchers in cultural heritage. It will not only advance the field of cultural heritage research, but also serve to stimulate developments in and of service to other fields. The information to be gained by interdisciplinary scientific investigation of cultural heritage materials has clear impact and relevance not only in the humanities, but also in basic science and in science education. Scientific research increases understanding of ancient technology, artist intent, deterioration processes, and preservation strategies. At the same time, the complexity of cultural heritage material stimulates applications and technology development and offers a multidisciplinary platform for scientific education and outreach. With this conference we want to attract a new generation of scientists by offering challenging problems connected to fascinating objects.

This meeting will focus on the investigation of materials relevant to cultural heritage at multiple scales with an emphasis on microanalysis and imaging techniques and on opportunities at large scale facilities. Recent and upcoming developments in techniques such as hyperspectral imaging, Terahertz spectroscopy, tomography, elemental and molecular analysis using photons, neutrons and ions at large scale facilities, as well as new lab-size sources such as inverse Compton sources (ICS) will be discussed in the context of cultural heritage research. The participation of young investigators will be encouraged through dedicated complementary poster sessions, with selection of the best abstract for oral presentation during the special Thursday evening session.

Discussions during this first conference will help to provide stewardship and vision for future Gordon Conferences in this series, likely focusing on research in chemistry and biology for cultural heritage.