X-CT Reconstruction as a Tool for Monitoring the Conservation State and Decay Processes of Works of Art and in Support of Restoration and Conservation Strategies

X-ray Computed Tomography (X-CT) emerges as a transformative tool for assessing the conservation state and decay processes of cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Japan's Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group. This non-invasive technique allows for detailed internal analysis without altering artifacts, making it invaluable for monitoring deterioration and guiding restoration strategies. The study demonstrates its versatility through diverse case studies, from an 18th-century writing cabinet to a Roman glass fragment, and notably, presents the first µ-CT investigation of a bronze arrowhead from Japan's Kofun period (3rd century CE). By providing digital models that aid in conservation efforts, X-CT not only supports the analysis of complex artifacts but also helps track the long-term effects of time and historical events on their preservation. Its adaptability across different setups further underscores its potential as a cornerstone for heritage management.

Guidorzi, L., Re, A., Tansella, F., Vigorelli, L., Ricci, C., Ryan, J., & Lo Giudice, A. (2025). X-CT Reconstruction as a Tool for Monitoring the Conservation State and Decay Processes of Works of Art and in Support of Restoration and Conservation Strategies. Heritage, 8(2), 52. https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8020052