Cultural heritage
Preserving cultural heritage is a paradigmatic example of how the scientific knowledge becomes the underlying element for the
economical growth of a country. This issue involves a broad range of studies and techniques, some specific to this field,
some others taken from other research fields. Physics and, more generally, materials science allow for the development and study
of cultural heritage with specific methodologies, instruments and knowledge, thus increasing the interdisciplinary character of
the topic.
Activities in this field are carried on from the Department together with the Interdepartmental Center for Studies and Researches
on Cultural Heritage Preservation (CISRIC), and are mainly related to the study of pigments from paintings or frescos, ancient
coloured glasses, ceramics and other handmade artistic objects. Particular care is given to the local historical and artistic
heritage. In this respect, findings from the famous "Certosa di Pavia", from Lardirago Castle, from "Cripta di San Felice", from
the church of "San Michele"; ceramics from the Iron age and from Roman times coming from Valcamonica and coloured glasses of medieval
age coming from Liguria.
The main techniques employed in this research field are micro-Raman spectroscopy, electronic paramagnetic resonance,
thermoluminescence, and optical absorption, together with the other research facilities at CISRIC.
Staff: P. Galinetto, M.C. Mozzati