Taj Mahal conservation and the scope of electromagnetic sensing

Electromagnetic sensing techniques, including micro-Raman spectroscopy and terahertz (THz) imaging, offer a rapid and reliable method for detecting surface and sub-surface damage in marble structures like the Taj Mahal. This approach, tested on white slabs with ornamental motifs similar to those at the site, successfully mapped minute changes caused by sulfur, organic materials, and water damage with high accuracy. By providing objective, non-invasive assessments, these techniques could significantly reduce the time-consuming and subjective nature of traditional visual evaluations, leading to more efficient and cost-effective conservation efforts for cultural heritage sites.

Bandyopadhyay, A., Chanda, P., Aalam, U., Khatri, K., Bertling, K., Torniainen, J., Rakić, A. D., & Sengupta, A. (2026). Taj Mahal conservation and the scope of electromagnetic sensing. Journal of Physics: Photonics, 8(1), 12004. https://doi.org/10.1088/2515-7647/ae3a25