Special Feature: Spectroscopy for Heritage

The following post was written by our Training Officer, Dr Ewan Chipping, following his visit to the Harwell Heritage Network meeting.

The study of heritage using scientific methods like physical, chemical, and biological analysis is becoming more common, thanks to easier access to research facilities. Spectroscopy, in particular, is proving to be a valuable tool. Several techniques were showcased at the second Harwell Heritage Network meeting, called ‘Spectroscopy for Heritage’.

The event began with several engaging sessions, starting with an introduction to the Harwell Heritage Network by co-chair Dr. Archie Graf. He explained the Network’s goal of connecting different parts of the heritage sector and supporting the use of advanced spectroscopy tools. He highlighted key groups like HarwellXPS, Diamond Light Source, ISIS, and the Central Laser Facilities. He also noted that analysis costs could potentially be covered through applications—either for quick testing of a few samples or through a more detailed process for full access.

Dr. Archie Graf opening the Heritage Network meeting

Representatives of the lab groups also gave more specific presentations regarding exactly what some of the techniques could achieve. Prof. Robert Palgrave described the workings of XPS (or X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and Harwell XPS. This included a slight background to quantum mechanics, but most importantly its application in analysing the elemental components of a sample. Dr. Susan Nehzati covered a historical background of X-rays through time, setting up perfectly for the Diamond Light Source tour. Dr. Adrien Hillier explained the role of the ISIS lab working with Neutrons and Muons and how these techniques have been used to investigate composition of materials in swords and coins (amongst other objects) along with building 2D and 3D models. Dr. Sara Mosca presented on behalf of the Central Laser Facility on offset ramen spectrometry and its ability to  provide chemical analysis even underneath obscuring layers. One common theme was that all these techniques were virtually non-destructive, and each has a particular strength in its application to heritage science. The labs encourage early communication from potential collaborators to establish the best facility of analysis of a sample. In short if one lab can’t help, another likely will!

Interspersed with the more technical talks were case studies from heritage organisations into their specific work. These ranged from analysis of paint samples categorising if inclusions in the chemical composition of paint induced the formation of salt crystals, reflections on sustainable practice in sample collection and opportunities of identifying past treatment of video tapes to assist future conservation. It was interesting to see the broad range of applications of spectrometry in real work practice in heritage science. 

Inside the Diamond Light Source looking along the beamlines

The clear highlight however was the tour of the Diamond Light Source. This is the UK’s national synchrotron facility, and really worth a visit via one of their ticketed public open days. Inside you can see the particle accelerators where electrons are accelerated to near light speed before entering the storage ring and being collected in the beamlines (or laboratories) where samples are studied. There are multiple beamlines that all channel a slightly different light frequency giving varying particle sizes. Each beamline lab is therefore specialised in the analysis of certain characteristics of a sample. On the tour technicians also explained the further capabilities of some beamlines, for example inducing a range of gasses to explore sample properties under different conditions. There was also the indication that a dedicated heritage science beamline is under development! 

Dr. Susan Nehzati explaining the processes involved in data collection in a beamline

The day highlighted the potential of spectrometry as a viable and promising analysis tool in heritage science. Its application is certainly wide ranging and the team at Harwell excited to undertake projects and research in the heritage sector. For more information you can visit the HarwellXPS page, Diamond Light Source, and see about their collaboration with RICHeS.