Beyond the Page: Solar Loading Thermographic Imaging and Predictive Modeling for Ancient Book Diagnostics-Preliminary...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Cultural Heritage Conservation
• Non-Destructive Testing (NDTs)

Background:

• Ancient books face degradation, necessitating advanced diagnostic tools for conservation.
• Sub-surface defects in cultural heritage objects require non-invasive detection methods.
• Traditional conservation methods may not identify hidden structural issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Non-Destructive Testing (NDTs) for detecting sub-surface defects in ancient books.
• To assess the application of solar loading thermography (SLT) and advanced image processing for cultural heritage diagnostics.
• To compare experimental thermographic results with numerical simulations for enhanced accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Acquisition of thermographic image sequences using solar loading thermography (SLT).
• Application of advanced image processing techniques (MdFIF, PCT, RPCT) for defect analysis.
• Development of a predictive thermal model using COMSOL Multiphysics® for comparison.

Main Results:

• NDTs successfully identified four distinct fabricated sub-surface defects (Wool, Rubber, Teflon®, Synthetic).
• Both image processing and numerical simulation approaches revealed localized thermal anomalies.
• The combined approach demonstrated high capability in detecting artificial defects, including subtle ones.

Conclusions:

• NDTs, particularly SLT combined with advanced image processing and simulation, are suitable for diagnostic conservation of cultural heritage.
• This integrated methodology enhances diagnostic accuracy for identifying sub-surface defects.
• Findings support informed condition assessment and targeted, preventive conservation strategies for delicate artifacts.