2: Analytical Techniques in Conservation Science

This chapter will provide an overview of the main analytical methods used for the study of historic and archaeological materials; techniques appropriate to particular material types will be discussed in more detail within the individual chapters, and more specific or specialist techniques may also be explored. Modern instrumental analysis can reveal a wide range of information about the provenance, history and use of an object, its composition and construction, and the ways in which it has changed, deteriorated or been altered. This can be of great value in the study and care of such items, and inform decisions about conservation, use and storage. However, it is important to ensure not only that an analytical technique is appropriate to the objects and materials in question, but also that the analysis is answering a specific and pertinent question. An understanding of the different techniques available ensures that time and resources are not wasted, and unnecessary interventions are avoided. Furthermore, it enables productive conversations between conservators and conservation scientists. Understanding the implications of different approaches to sampling is vital to choosing appropriate analyses, as is the way in which a single sample might be used for a sequence of investigations, so these factors are also discussed. Finally, the applicability and use of artificial ageing is considered.