Thermography for the conservation of historical artifacts: the case of the Chinese Buddha in an underground environment

Abstract

Thermography is the ideal choice for protecting
historical treasures. Using this
technique, we are able to identify imperfections
that can damage our artifacts,
such as water infiltration or mold, invisible
to the naked eye. This technology is
increasingly widespread as a preventive
maintenance method for cultural and artistic
heritage throughout the world.
Thermography is not a measurement of
temperature, but is based on the principles
of thermodynamics: each body is
characterized by its own thermal emission
depending on its surface temperature,
which is in turn conditioned by the
thermal conductivity and specific heat of
each material. In fact, each material has
a different capacity to transmit or retain
heat.
Thermography allows us to investigate
and identify internal problems that are
not visible to the naked eye and is very
useful in various applications for the protection
of artistic and cultural heritage.