Session chairs:  Artemios Oikonomou (CyI, NCSR Demokritos) and Andreas-Germanos Karydas (NCSR Demokritos)

The comprehensive non-invasive characterization of archaeological materials and objects of art poses several analytical challenges requiring the synergistic and complementary application of multifaceted elemental, molecular and structural spectroscopic techniques. Different radiation probes, including electromagnetic radiation in a broad range of frequencies (from Terahertz to hard X-rays), charged particles and even neutron beams, are used in-situ (if portable) or at dedicated laboratory infrastructures to support an integrated elemental, chemical, structural and crystalline characterization at different spatial dimensions (from sub-micron to meter scale). Through the data acquired an array of queries can be addressed ranging from the technological choices and practices made by the craftsmen and artisans, the provenance of raw materials, societal issues and inter- state connections to the illumination of materials degradation processes.

This session aims at attracting scientific contributions engaged in the application of cutting-edge technology, non-invasive techniques, on the study of objects and artworks related to human activity in past cultures. Case studies on easel and wall paintings, metals, glass and faience, ceramics, stones, mortars and of other inorganic or organic materials are welcome, requiring instrumentation and methodological innovations and encompassing novel approaches with respect to data analysis, fusion and interpretation.