Terahertz pulse imaging for tree-ring analysis: a preliminary study for dendrochronology applications

Abstract

Time-domain terahertz reflection imaging is presented as a novel method of measuring otherwise inaccessible tree rings in wooden cultural heritage for the purpose of tree-ring crossdating. Axial and lateral two-dimensional terahertz images of obscured ring patterns are statistically validated with respect to their corresponding optical photographs via adapted dendrochronological methods. Results are compared to similar analysis of x-ray images of a wood specimen.

Mobile depth profiling and sub-surface imaging techniques for historical paintings—A review

“…only weakly absorbing the THz radiation as opposed to graphite. Further, TDS-THz has also been proposed for the study of tree rings in painted wood [160], the detection of delaminations [161] and for the detection of defects in a painted wooden panel [162].…”

Review of Moisture and Liquid Detection and Mapping using Terahertz Imaging

“…[72] It has also been suggested that THz can be used to detect water content or damage in artifacts and artwork. [73] …”

Terahertz and Cultural Heritage Science: Examination of Art and Archaeology

“…This paper introduces THz technology and discusses its applications for Art and Archaeology. Its first test in this field dates back to 1998 when THz was investigated as a tool for dating wooden objects (dendrochronology) [39][40][41]. The same instrumental advancements that led the growing interest into this technology also generated research into a number of cultural heritage applications [42].…”