Analytical Chemistry for Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

A special issue of Heritage (ISSN 2571-9408).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2025 | Viewed by 1563

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
Interests: archaeometry; analytical chemistry; analytical methods; cultural heritage; proteomics; conservation science

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Guest Editor
Department of History, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
Interests: archaeology; archaeometry; analytical methods; cultural heritage; proteomics; conservation science

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Special Issue “Analytical Chemistry for Archaeology and Cultural Heritage” presents an intriguing and innovative exploration of the intersection of chemical sciences and heritage studies. Aimed at fostering the development and application of analytical chemistry techniques to solve complex challenges in archaeology and Cultural Heritage preservation, this issue embodies a comprehensive compilation of research articles, reviews, and case studies highlighting recent advancements, methodologies, and applications in the field.

The primary aim of this Special Issue is to showcase the pivotal role that analytical chemistry plays in the preservation, analysis, and interpretation of Cultural Heritage and archaeological materials. From identifying ancient pigments on artifacts to determining the composition and provenance of historical objects, analytical chemistry provides invaluable insights that contribute to our understanding of the past. Furthermore, it offers innovative solutions for conservation challenges, ensuring the longevity and integrity of these irreplaceable resources for future generations.

The scope of this Special Issue spans a wide array of topics, including but not limited to the development of non-destructive analysis techniques, advancements in imaging and spectroscopy for artifact analysis, the study of degradation processes in historical materials, and the application of chemical analysis in provenance and authenticity studies. It also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together chemists, archaeologists, conservators, and historians to share insights and approaches that enhance our understanding of Cultural Heritage.

Contributions to this issue come from a global community of researchers and practitioners pushing the boundaries of analytical chemistry and archaeology. Their work demonstrates how modern analytical techniques can unveil the secrets of the past, offering a deeper understanding of human history and culture.

This Special Issue serves as a valuable resource for researchers in analytical chemistry and archaeology and acts as a catalyst for further innovation and collaboration at the nexus of science and heritage conservation.

Dr. Enrico Greco
Dr. Davide Tanasi
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Heritage is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • analytical chemistry techniques
  • archaeological material analysis
  • cultural heritage conservation
  • non-destructive testing methods
  • artifact provenance and authenticity
  • chemical characterization of archaeological objects
  • imaging and spectroscopy in archaeology
  • mass spectrometry in archaeology
  • degradation processes in cultural artifacts
  • interdisciplinary approaches

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Research

22 pages, 8514 KiB  
Article
Multi-Analytical Characterization of Illuminated Choirbooks from the Royal Audience of Quito
by Martha Romero-Bastidas, Katherine Guacho-Pachacama, Carlos Vásquez-Mora, Fernando Espinoza-Guerra, Rita Díaz-Benalcázar, Johanna Ramírez-Bustamante and Luis Ramos-Guerrero
Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6592-6613; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120305 - 24 Nov 2024
Viewed by 585
Abstract
Choirbooks are historical heritage manuscripts used for the performance of vocal music in religious ceremonies in colonial times. This study aimed to understand the characteristics of choirbook manuscripts produced in the Real Audiencia de Quito during the 17th century. The methodology combined non-invasive [...] Read more.
Choirbooks are historical heritage manuscripts used for the performance of vocal music in religious ceremonies in colonial times. This study aimed to understand the characteristics of choirbook manuscripts produced in the Real Audiencia de Quito during the 17th century. The methodology combined non-invasive techniques, such as infrared false-color imaging (IRFC) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF), together with spot analysis by scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflection (FTIR-ATR). The analytical results revealed the use of pumice, chalk and lime carbonate as support materials in the manufacturing process and surface treatment of the parchment. In the illuminations, three pictorial techniques based on protein, polysaccharide and lipid binders were recognized, establishing that the pigments used with greater regularity in the illuminations were vermilion, minium, verdigris, orpiment, azurite, and indigo, preferably in a pure state. Materials used less regularly were also identified, such as yellow ochre, saffron, smalt, red ochre, and bone black, among others. Regarding the vulnerability of the pictorial materials, it was determined that, although most of the pigments exhibit chemical stability, they present some vulnerabilities associated with their intrinsic composition and the medium that contains them. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analytical Chemistry for Archaeology and Cultural Heritage)
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