How Spectroscopy Has Shaped Cultural Heritage Preservation: Insights from 30 Years of Research

Recently, a team of researchers from Jiangnan University explored how spectroscopic techniques are changing cultural heritage preservation. The team examined how spectroscopy has evolved, investigating what changes in instrumentation have led to advancements in cultural heritage. The findings of this study, which were published in npj Heritage Science, chart the central research themes that spectroscopy was used to explore over the years as well as deliver insight into where the field is heading (1).

What is cultural heritage?

Cultural heritage is a field of study that studies tangible artifacts and intangible attributes, such as cultural traditions, passed down from previous generations (2). It is a field that bridges the gap between history and the future, allowing us to learn more about how previous societies operated and what their way of life was like. The definition of cultural heritage has changed throughout the years, but it is heavily influenced by complex historical processes and shifting value systems recognized by diverse groups (2). Cultural heritage also contributes to decisions we make today regarding what traditions remain in the culture and which traditions should change.

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What role does spectroscopy play in all of this?

Spectroscopy has often been used in cultural heritage studies because of the non-destructive nature of some of its techniques (3). The study of cultural artifacts requires delicacy, as these artifacts are very old and fragile. Because the risk of damaging the artifacts is high, scientists take significant precautions to ensure the object remains free from contamination and damage.

Spectroscopy allows scientists to study these artifacts and learn about previous generations in a noninvasive manner. Several spectroscopic techniques, such as infrared (IR), Raman, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy, have been used to help identify pigments, binders, metals, and other components (3). This analytical capability supports conservation efforts by revealing material composition, degradation processes, and previous restoration work (4,5). Spectroscopy also aids in authentication, detecting forgeries, and tracing the provenance of cultural artifacts (5). By providing detailed molecular and elemental information, it allows researchers to better understand historical manufacturing techniques and cultural practices. Additionally, portable and remote spectroscopy instruments facilitate in situ analysis in museums, archaeological sites, and heritage locations (6). Through these applications, spectroscopy serves as a bridge between science and the humanities, ensuring that the tangible and intangible values of cultural heritage are preserved, interpreted, and shared with future generations.

Because of the many applications of using spectroscopy to study cultural artifacts, the researchers in this study opted to examine the historical evolution of spectroscopy in cultural heritage applications. To do so, they conducted an integrated bibliometric, qualitative, and quantitative approach to literature from 1992 to 2024 (1). Using three advanced bibliometric software tools, the researchers mapped the field’s macro-evolution, identified its central research themes, and projected its future trajectory.

How did the researchers conduct their bibliometric analysis in the study?

The researchers conducted bibliometric analysis that divided the development of spectroscopy in cultural heritage into four distinct phases. In its early years, research centered on basic chemical and physical analysis of heritage materials (1). Over time, the focus shifted toward increasingly sophisticated molecular-level characterization, enabled by advances in multi-spectral and multi-assistive techniques (1).

Today, researchers have been combining several techniques in their analysis of cultural artifacts, such as Raman spectroscopy, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), and infrared (IR) spectroscopies. These techniques are analyzing and evaluating a diverse array of heritage materials, ranging from ancient bronzes and crystalline artifacts to fragile murals and centuries-old paintings (1). This versatility allows scientists to tailor analytical approaches to the unique chemical and physical properties of each object, maximizing both accuracy and preservation safety.

What were some of the important findings from this study?

The researchers noted that one important finding from their study relates to pigment research, and how it is driving technological innovation. Using citation burst analysis, the researchers highlighted pivotal publications on LIBS, hyperspectral imaging, and the chemistry of heritage materials across different historical and cultural contexts (1). These advances have allowed researchers to not only identify materials with precision, but also to trace their geographic origins, manufacturing methods, and historical significance (1).

What are some of the current challenges in cultural heritage analysis?

Based on their findings, the researchers took note of some recurring themes regarding current challenges. Data availability remains uneven, and analysis complexity continues to halt standardization (1). Additionally, operational costs remain high (1). Raman spectroscopy, despite being one of the most critical tools in the field, still faces hurdles in spectrum identification, especially when dealing with degraded or contaminated samples (1).

Future progress in this space will require accelerating machine learning (ML) development to enhance pattern recognition and automate complex data interpretation. It will also require improving Raman detection sensitivity, enabling more accurate analysis of delicate or low-signal samples (1). And finally, reducing operational costs through more accessible and scalable instrumentation will be essential to advancing this field.

What does the future hold for cultural science?

The thematic evolution and strategic coordination maps produced in the study suggest that the future of spectroscopy in cultural heritage will be increasingly interdisciplinary. Researchers are already integrating chemistry, materials science, archaeology, art history, and computer science to create holistic conservation strategies (1).

The authors believe that the future of cultural analysis will be supported by AI-powered data processing (1). This evolution could democratize access to high-quality analytical tools, enabling even small museums and local conservation teams to benefit from new technology.

References

1. Ye, X., Chen, Y., Peng, L. et al. Application of Spectroscopy Technique in Cultural Heritage: Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis. npj Herit. Sci. 2025, 13, 169. DOI: 10.1038/s40494-025-01622-0
2. Central European University, The Concept and History of Cultural Heritage. CEU.edu. Available at: https://culturalheritagestudies.ceu.edu/concept-and-history-cultural-heritage (accessed 2025-08-13).
3. Liu, G.-L.; Kazarian, S. G. Recent Advances and Applications to Cultural Heritage Using ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy and ATR-FTIR Spectroscopic Imaging. Analyst 2022,147, 1777–1797. DOI: 10.1039/D2AN00005A
4. Workman, Jr. J. Raman Spectroscopy Transforms Cultural Heritage and Forensic Analysis. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/raman-spectroscopy-transforms-cultural-heritage-and-forensic-analysis (accessed 2025-08-13).
5. Hajdas, I.; Calcagnile, L.; Molnar, M.; et al. The Potential of Radiocarbon Analysis for the Detection of Art Forgeries. For. Sci. Int. 2022, 335, 111292. DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111292
6. Wetzel, W. New Multi-Spectroscopic System Enhances Cultural Heritage Analysis. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/new-multi-spectroscopic-system-enhances-cultural-heritage-analysis (accessed 2025-08-13).