Analytical Technologies for the Diagnostics of Cultural Heritage

The course aims to provide students with knowledge on the application of both conventional and advanced instrumental analytical methods to the study of the chemical composition of cultural heritage materials (stone materials and ceramics, glasses, metals and metallic alloys, writing and digital information supports, dyes and inorganic pigments, organic remains) and of their degradation processes. Particular attention is paid to experimental approaches and data interpretation, useful for the solution of specific problems concerning these materials, such as provenance, manufacturing technology, dating, authenticity and conservation.

After attending the course, the student will be able to: select the most appropriate instrumental analytical methods to address specific questions related to the study and conservation of cultural heritage materials; develop tailored protocols for analyzing materials from different classes; interpret and process experimental data effectively.