Lasers ART's Sake IESL-FORTH Cultural Heritage
The vision and the mission of this activity have been to develop state-of-the-art laser-based methods in order to a) enhance our understanding about cultural heritage (CH) materials and processes and b) provide versatile and effective tools for the analysis, diagnosis, preservation and restoration of archaeological/historical objects, works of art, and monuments.
Surface cleaning, based on laser ablation, is particularly effective for the controlled and selective removal of altered over-layers and unwanted accumulations in a variety of CH substrates (i.e. stonework, easel paintings, icons as well as glass and metal objects).
Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) provides insight on the identity and composition of materials in Cultural Heritage objects.
Raman Spectroscopy gives analytical information on the molecular structure of materials
Spectral Imaging allows the detailed mapping of the individual layers that compose an artwork using a prototype spectral imaging system.
Detecting changes and monitoring degradation is critical in order to improve and upgrade preventive conservation strategies.
Exploit advanced photonic tools to develop new diagnostic methodologies
A series of transportable instruments are the technological output of the 20 years of experience which was gained through research and applications of lasers in Cultural Heritage Conservation. Check out all available Instruments here