D1.2 – Technical report on design of multimodal diagnostics

This deliverable, D1.2 – Technical Report on Design of Multimodal Diagnostics, presents thedesign of novel instrumentation and methodologies within the CHANGES project, WorkPackage 1 (WP1) “Advanced Non-invasive Methods for Sustainable Diagnostics in HeritageScience”. WP1 seeks to innovate sustainable, non-invasive diagnostic instruments andanalytical protocols tailored for the complex needs of cultural heritage preservation, aimingto advance the diagnostic capabilities essential for the conservation and study of historicalartifacts.WP1 integrates and harmonizes advanced instrumentation, combining various nondestructiveanalytical techniques—such as hyperspectral imaging (HSI), X-ray fluorescence(XRF) imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT), X-ray computed tomography (CT),Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, a comprehensiveresearch program designed to gather diverse and complementary data on the materialcomposition and stratigraphy of tangible cultural heritage. By enhancing the depth andquality of information that can be obtained non-invasively, these methods facilitate a deeperunderstanding on multiple levels: raw materials, production technologies, and degradationprocesses. This knowledge is essential for developing evidence-based strategies forconservation and valorization.The activities conducted under WP1 include:• Design and development of a combined XRF and CT imaging system: the design andprototyping of a compact X-ray imaging system enable elemental mapping and 3D imagingof immovable artifacts directly within museum or site settings.• Design and development of a combined IR and XRF imaging device based on a cyberphysicalcollaborative cobot: the development of combined an IR/XRF system where ameasuring head is driven by a collaborative robotic arm allows the simultaneous acquisition of elemental and molecular information at three-dimensional level and offers the possibilityto visualize the compositional distribution on 3D artworks with a complex geometry.• Design and development of a combined OCT and HIS device: the development of acombined OCT and HSI instrument allows simultaneous acquisition of tomographic andspectral datacubes, particularly useful in distinguishing varnish layers from underlying glazesand paints. This setup provides a non-invasive solution for studying both surface andsubsurface features with micron-level precision.• Development of multimodal diagnostic protocols: a) combination of FTIR, XRF, and EddyCurrent (EC) measurements for the precise, non-invasive analysis of organic films on metalsurfaces, with a specific utility in the monitoring of protective coatings over time to offeroptimized conservation approaches; b) combination of HSI with Spatially Offset RamanSpectroscopy (SORS) to examine complex layered structures in mock-up paintings for nondestructivestratigraphic analysis and the distinction between different pigments and binderswith high accuracy.The collaborative and interdisciplinary framework of WP1 aims to develop innovativediagnostic tools that align with the sustainability goals of the CHANGES project. Thedesigned technologies and protocols enhance both the accessibility and accuracy ofheritage diagnostics, providing valuable methodologies applicable to a wide range ofconservation scenarios.