FORTH - Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser

The “PHOTONICS FOR HERITAGE SCIENCE (HS)” group pursues frontier, innovative research for over twenty-five years positioning IESL-FORTH among the leading centers worldwide for scientific research and technological development of cutting-edge laser and optical tools that offer new and efficient approaches to the diagnostics and conservation of works of art and antiquities. Emphasis is placed on: a) laser ablation methodologies for cleaning and restoration, b) laser spectroscopy for compositional analysis, c) multi spectral imaging and d) holographic metrology techniques for structural diagnosis. The vision and the mission of this activity has been to develop state-of-the-art laser-based methods in order to a) enhance our understanding about cultural heritage (CH) materials and processes and b) provide versatile and effective tools for the analysis, diagnosis, preservation and restoration of archaeological/historical objects, works of art, and monuments.