Molecular Luminescence in Cultural Heritage

This volume is designed as a handbook for the interpretation of luminescence data and reviews applications in conservation that require robust and accurate methods for molecular analysis and mapping of materials. Molecular fluorescence and phosphorescence spectroscopy and imaging are consolidated techniques that can be applied to the analysis of works of art. In this book the theoretical aspects and fundamental parameters for the interpretation of data are presented along with a review of instrumental techniques and recent developments. Examples of luminescent pigments and materials found in works of art are followed by a section on computational approaches that can aid data interpretation. In addition numerous case studies on paintings, archaeological materials, stone and organic materials are presented.