A newly launched research project, funded by the AHRC/EPSRC Science and Heritage Programme and led by Dr Lorraine T. Gibson of the University of Strathclyde, brings together leading scientists in the fields of chemistry, physics, statistics, heritage science and sensor technology to develop new diagnostic tools that will ‘sniff’ objects. The aim is to evaluate collections in museums, archives, libraries or other heritage organisations to evaluate their environment, conservation history, composition, condition or stability – without touching the object.
Dr Gibson explains: ‘A good example is a library; we all know that when we walk into a library, there is a very distinct musty smell. But we want to know what causes the smell – what does it tell us about the books stored inside? The best way to find this out is by understanding the science behind the smell‘.
The new technology will be non-invasive, non-contact, portable and simple to use providing real-time data; making it particularly well suited to address questions about cultural heritage collections. Rapid examination and assessment of materials will allow informed decisions to be made promptly aiding safe storage, conservation, display and long-term preservation of collections important to our cultural heritage.
Crucially this project brings together academic partners at the University of Strathclyde and University College London with heritage organisations such as the British Library, the British Museum, the National Museums of Scotland, the National Archives of Scotland and English Heritage. An SME partnership with Owlstone Ltd. will facilitate sensor technology development for use in heritage applications.
Speaking of the research councils’ support for heritage science research in the UK Professor Rick Rylance, AHRC Chief Executive, said 'This is great news for the development of heritage science in Britain. We have a unique heritage, and expertise in its development. It is crucial we maintain skills and tackle important projects such as these. It is also excellent to see experts in humanities and technology working so closely and successfully together.’
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Media Contact: Emi Spinner, AHRC Communications Officer; T: 01793 416 020 E: e.spinner@ahrc.ac.uk
UK Science & Heritage Research Programme: The Arts and Humanities Research Council and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council are managing this research programme that runs initially, for five years. The programme is led by Programme Director, Professor May Cassar of UCL. Professor Cassar leads on the programmes development, external coordination and outreach as well as on extensive networking with the national and international research community including non-academic sectors. In addition she is also establishing the base line level of funding across all the research councils and developing a comprehensive map of recent and current research and training activity in heritage science.
Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC): Each year the AHRC provides approximately £112 million from the Government to support research and postgraduate study in the arts and humanities, from languages and law, archaeology and English literature to design and creative and performing arts. In any one year, the AHRC makes approximately 700 research awards and around 1,300 postgraduate awards. Awards are made after a rigorous peer review process, to ensure that only applications of the highest quality are funded. The quality and range of research supported by this investment of public funds not only provides social and cultural benefits but also contributes to the economic success of the UK.
The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is the UK’s main agency for funding research in engineering and the physical sciences. The EPSRC invests more than £750 million a year in research and postgraduate training to help the nation handle the next generation of technological change.