FTIR and UV-Vis Technology for Art Conservation

Importance of the topic

The preservation and study of artworks and historical artifacts rely on non-destructive analytical methods to determine material composition, detect degradation, guide restoration treatments, and authenticate provenance. FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) and UV-Vis (Ultraviolet-Visible) spectroscopy are indispensable tools in cultural heritage science, providing molecular and colorimetric insights without harming precious or immovable objects.

Objectives and overview of the article

This application note introduces a portfolio of Agilent Technologies’ FTIR and UV-Vis instruments tailored for art and historical object conservation. It outlines device capabilities, field performance, and specific applications in pigment identification, binder analysis, aging studies, and remote or in situ examinations of works that cannot be relocated.

Methodology and instrumentation used

• 4100 ExoScan and 4300 Handheld FTIR: Portable, battery-powered FTIR systems with interchangeable diffuse and ATR accessories for true non-destructive analysis on surfaces and complex geometries.
• Cary 620 FTIR Microscope and Imaging System: High-resolution micro-ATR imaging with “Live ATR” mode that preserves delicate samples and delivers chemical maps down to 3 μm spatial resolution.
• Cary 60 UV-Visible Spectrometer: Rugged, flash-lamp-based UV-Vis for rapid (3 s) spectral acquisition over 190–1100 nm, remote fiber-optic probes, onboard CCD visualization, and reflectance accessories for large or fixed artifacts.

Main findings and discussion

FTIR handheld instruments demonstrated reliable performance in thousands of field hours, enabling on-site analysis of cave art, ceiling frescoes, and statuary without sampling removal. The compact optics allow operation in any orientation and real-time scanning to locate regions of interest. The Cary 620 microscope offers damage-free micro-ATR imaging, critical for fragile paint cross-sections, while preserving sample integrity. UV-Vis measurements with the Cary 60 revealed pigment and dye signatures, aging effects, and binders in situ, immune to ambient light interference, with fiber-optic probes extending analysis to inaccessible areas.

Benefits and practical applications of the method

• Non-destructive identification of organic/inorganic pigments, dyes, resins, binders, coatings, and fibers.
• Assessment of aging and environmental damage from UV exposure, heat, and pollutants.
• Support for cleaning, restoration, and authentication processes without sample extraction.
• Field-portable solutions that eliminate the need to relocate large, fragile, or immovable objects.
• High spatial resolution imaging for micro-samples and comprehensive mapping of chemical composition.

Future trends and potential applications

Advances in detector sensitivity, miniaturized scanning platforms, and machine-learning algorithms for spectral interpretation will further streamline in situ heritage analysis. Integration of 3D imaging, hyperspectral mapping, and combined FTIR-Raman or UV-Vis-XRF modalities promises comprehensive, multimodal characterization. Cloud-based data sharing and collaborative platforms will enhance conservation networks worldwide.

Conclusion

Agilent’s FTIR and UV-Vis spectrometers deliver robust, user-friendly, and truly non-destructive analysis for art and historical object conservation. Their portability, high resolution, and rapid acquisition capabilities support museum, university, and field-based experts in material identification, aging assessment, and restoration decision-making.

Reference

Agilent Technologies. AGILENT SOLUTIONS FOR ART AND HISTORICAL OBJECT CONSERVATION. Published USA, March 13, 2015, document 5991-1160EN.