The refinement of non-invasive imaging provides new layers of scholarly and preservation data by capturing images of heritage materials in distinct wavebands of the visible and non-visible spectrum. Advancing these capabilities has allowed new interpretations of such important historical documents as those of the U.S. founding fathers documents. Image processing of large datasets generate a wealth of information, and require careful consideration of the metadata and processing to ensure no that no false imaging artifacts are produced. These imaging technologies have been expanded to gather a range of preservation information including the non-invasive characterization of colorants, and comparative ink analysis. A further advantage is the ability to undertake predictive assessment of the impact of environment and treatments. Baseline imaging allows for more data-driven decisions to be made for exhibition, and conservation treatments for stabilization.
Fenella. G. France, "Spectral Imaging for Preservation Documentation" in Proc. IS&T Archiving 2016, 2016, https://doi.org/10.2352/issn.2168-3204.2016.1.0.2