Revealing Hidden Features in Multilayered Artworks by Means of an Epi-Illumination Photoacoustic Imaging System.

Photoacoustic imaging is a novel, rapidly expanding technique, which has recently found several applications in artwork diagnostics, including the uncovering of hidden layers in paintings and multilayered documents, as well as the thickness measurement of optically turbid paint layers with high accuracy. However, thus far, all the presented photoacoustic-based imaging technologies dedicated to such measurements have been strictly limited to thin objects due to the detection of signals in transmission geometry. Unavoidably, this issue restricts seriously the applicability of the imaging method, hindering investigations over a wide range of cultural heritage objects with diverse geometrical and structural features. Here, we present an epi-illumination photoacoustic apparatus for diagnosis in heritage science, which integrates laser excitation and respective signal detection on one side, aiming to provide universal information in objects of arbitrary thickness and shape. To evaluate the capabilities of the developed system, we imaged thickly painted mock-ups, in an attempt to reveal hidden graphite layers covered by various optically turbid paints, and compared the measurements with standard near-infrared (NIR) imaging. The obtained results prove that photoacoustic signals reveal underlying sketches with up to 8 times improved contrast, thus paving the way for more relevant applications in the field.

Non-invasive photoacoustic detection of hidden underdrawings in paintings using air-coupled transducers.

We demonstrate the application of a fully non-contact and non-invasive photoacoustic (PA) imaging system integrating a high sensitivity spherically focused air-coupled ultrasonic transducer, for the uncovering of hidden underdrawings in paintings. By selectively transforming optical absorption information into ultrasonic waves which propagate virtually unobstructed through the paint layers, PA signals provide specific imaging of underlying pencil sketches even for paints presenting high optical scattering and absorption properties. The developed system could be employed for case studies involving the investigation of paintings with historical significance, considerably complementing the capabilities of existing methods.

Combined multiphoton fluorescence microscopy and photoacoustic imaging for stratigraphic analysis of paintings.

We demonstrate the effective combination of multiphoton and photoacoustic (PA) imaging for the high-resolution stratigraphic analysis of multilayered art objects with emphasis on paintings. A novel convolution-based algorithm is additionally applied for the precise discrimination of nonlinear signals, providing valuable information in regard to the thickness and composition of successive varnish and paint layers in the mock-up samples. On the other hand, PA contrast complements the extracted data by revealing well-hidden graphite underdrawings below the paint at high sensitivity levels. The final composite images are directly compared with cross-sectional brightfield observations, validating the capabilities of the bimodal diagnosis in terms of measurement accuracy and contrast specificity. The presented hybrid diagnostic approach has the potential to optimize delicate interventions in works of art such as the selective removal of aged materials, thus promoting a significantly improved restoration outcome.

Third-harmonic generation and multi-photon excitation fluorescence imaging microscopy techniques for online art conservation diagnosis.

We present an appropriate methodology and results for using third-harmonic generation (THG) modality for nondestructive high resolution imaging measurements of varnished structures in model painted artifacts. Detection takes place in the reflection mode, demonstrating the ability of the technique to be applied to the evaluation of original artworks. Furthermore, multi-photon excitation fluorescence images were obtained, providing complementary information related to the identification of the chemical composition of the artifacts.

Nonlinear imaging microscopy techniques as diagnostic tools for art conservation studies.

We present results of the implementation of three-photon excitation fluorescence (3PEF) and third harmonic generation imaging measurements for the precise and nondestructive detection of natural and synthetic varnish layers, which are used for the surface protection of painted artifacts. For this purpose, we employ as an excitation source a compact femtosecond laser operating at 1028 nm. Two-dimensional images of the multilayer structures from different samples are depicted. The third harmonic signals show the interface between the different materials, when its refractive index mismatch is high enough. The depths of different layers of varnishes, presenting similar refractive index, are distinguishable with an axial resolution of approximately 1 microm by employing 3PEF measurements.

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) in archaeological science--applications and prospects.

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has emerged in the past ten years as a promising technique for analysis and characterization of the composition of a broad variety of objects of cultural heritage including painted artworks, icons, polychromes, pottery, sculpture, and metal, glass, and stone artifacts. This article describes in brief the basic principles and technological aspects of LIBS, and reviews several test cases that demonstrate the applicability and prospects of LIBS in the field of archaeological science.