Portable Raman Spectroscopy for Art & Archaeology Applications

Significance of the Topic

Portable Raman spectroscopy offers a non-destructive, in-situ method to analyze cultural heritage materials such as paintings, ceramics and statues.
The technique supports conservation and authentication by providing molecular-level information without sampling.

Objectives and Overview

This article outlines the capabilities of portable Raman instruments in art, archaeology and geology.
It highlights the design features of the i-Raman series and demonstrates typical field applications.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Raman spectra are collected via a fiber-optic probe combined with various laser excitations and a detachable microscope head.
The system is designed for field use, employing a battery pack, tripod-mounted video microscope and proprietary software libraries for compound identification.

Main Results and Discussion

Field deployments of the i-Raman series have successfully characterized pigments in tapestries, cave paintings and mural ceilings.
Both organic and inorganic components in ancient artworks were identified to guide conservation strategies and verify authenticity.
Environmental degradation effects such as oxidation and corrosion were monitored on-site.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Adjustable laser power down to 1% for sensitive samples
• Compact, lightweight design with fiber-optic probe enables in-situ measurements
• Battery operation extends field deployment time
• Integrated software libraries accelerate identification of pigments, dyes, minerals and inorganics
• Tripod-mounted video microscope allows access to hard-to-reach artifacts

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances in portable Raman technology may include further miniaturization, enhanced sensitivity and expanded spectral libraries.
Integration with hyperspectral imaging and quantitative analysis software will broaden applications in heritage science and environmental monitoring.

Conclusion

Portable Raman spectroscopy represents a versatile tool for non-destructive analysis of cultural heritage objects.
The i-Raman series combines field-ready hardware with specialized software to support conservation, authentication and research.

Used Instrumentation

• i-Raman Plus 785/532 S and i-Raman Prime (spectral range down to 65 cm-1)
• Battery Pack for remote operation
• Video Microscope with Detachable Camera Head (BAC151B)
• Tripod and remote sampling adaptor
• BWID Identification Software with Raman signature libraries
• Quantitative Analysis Software options (BWIQ, Vision)