Absorption edge sensitive radiography and tomography of Egyptian Papyri

A groundbreaking method using absorption edge-sensitive radiography and tomography has successfully uncovered hidden texts in fragile, undocumented Egyptian papyri from Elephantine Island. The technique leverages X-ray fluorescence mapping to identify high-Z elements like iron, antimony, or lead in ink, followed by element-specific absorption imaging at synchrotron facilities (BAMline, BESSY II) or micro-CT systems. By comparing transmission data above and below the absorption edges of these elements, researchers distinguished writing from base material, even in carbon-based inks invisible to conventional X-rays. Complementary Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed lead's presence as lead carboxylate. This non-invasive approach promises to revolutionize the study of rolled or folded papyri without manual intervention.

Arlt, T., Mahnke, H.-E., Siopi, T., Menei, E., Aibéo, C., Pausewein, R.-R., Reiche, I., Manke, I., & Lepper, V. (2019). Absorption edge sensitive radiography and tomography of Egyptian Papyri. Journal of Cultural Heritage, 39, 13–20. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.culher.2019.04.007