Measurements are performed using a SOC710 hyperspectral camera produced by Surface Optics Corporation, San Diego (USA). The system utilizes a whiskbroom line scanner producing a 696x520 pixels hypercube covering the range of 400-1000 nm with 128 spectral bands. The spectra are defined by one point approximately every 4.5 nm. The spatial resolution can be continuously modulated by adjustable focal length of the mounted objective. Two Elinchrom Scanlite 350W Halogen lamps with diffusing umbrellas are used for reflectance measurements. The analized object must be in vertical position and a free area of about 3x4 meters is needed in front of it.
Potential Results
Identification of dyes and pigments based on their reflectance spectral features is combined with the spatial distribution of each different material on the whole investigated surface. The technique permits the overall analysis of an object allowing the inspection of a wide surface in a very short time. The knowledge of the spatial distribution of different materials is fundamental for both the complete description of an artwork and the planning of any conservation/restoration action.