Assistance to the restoration of historical frescoes by stimulated infrared thermography

Stimulated infrared thermography emerges as a powerful, non-destructive tool for detecting hidden damage in historical frescoes. This study demonstrates its ability to identify detachments in situ across diverse sites, including the UNESCO-listed Abbey Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe. The technique relies on thermal stimulation to reveal subsurface defects, offering a novel approach for conservationists. Applications span from Louvre collections to medieval church ceilings and modern frescoes, showcasing its versatility. By combining thermal imaging with precise device implementation, researchers provide a practical solution for assessing structural integrity without invasive methods.

Candoré, J. C., Bodnar, J. L., Detalle, V., & Grossel, P. (2010). Assistance to the restoration of historical frescoes by stimulated infrared thermography. Proceedings of the 2010 International Conference on Quantitative InfraRed Thermography. https://doi.org/10.21611/qirt.2010.028