An innovative neutron spectroscopic imaging technique: mapping the elements distribution inside the bulk of archaeological artefacts

Giulia Marcucci, Antonella Scherillo, Maria Pia Riccardi, Costanza Cucini, Marco Tizzoni, Daniela Di Martino
Abstract:
This work highlights the significant advances in neutron imaging at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, specifically focusing on the development of the nuclear technique Neutron Resonance Transmission Imaging (NRTI). NRTI combines the sensitivity to elemental and isotopic composition with detailed morphological information, utilizing the epithermal portion of the neutron flux. Unlike standard neutron radiography/tomography, NRTI allows for the identification and localization of specific elements and isotopes within an object's volume without physical sampling. The technique preserves detailed time and energy information for each pixel of the detector, enabling enhanced analysis and visualization of elemental distribution and composition. A case study related to Cultural Heritage is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of NRTI in non-destructive investigations of inhomogeneous artefacts, specifically focusing on the excavation finds related to the first testimony of ancient brass production in Milan, Italy.
Download:
IMEKO-MetroArchaeo-2023-130.pdf
DOI:
10.21014/tc4-ARC-2023.130
Event details
IMEKO TC:
TC4
Event name:
TC4 MetroArchaeo 2023
Title:

IMEKO TC4 International Conference on Metrology for Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

Place:
Rome, ITALY
Time:
19 October 2023 - 21 October 2023