Speaker
Description
Analyzing cultural heritage objects has become crucial for their conservation, restoration, dating, and authentication. These objects' complexity and artistic and historical value pose significant challenges for scientific analysis. To address this, minimally invasive and nondestructive analytical procedures are indispensable. Employing accelerator-based techniques in synergy with methods like Raman spectroscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, and aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy has significantly expanded the archaeometry and conservation science field. This presentation will outline the cutting-edge methods employed at the University of Notre Dame to characterize cultural heritage items. I will illustrate these methodologies with specific case studies, including medieval manuscripts, paintings, sculptures, Roman and colonial American coins, and even paper money printed by Benjamin Franklin. Additionally, I will discuss the results in the broader historical context, offering insights into the heritage and legacy of these artifacts.
