Establishing standardized digital protocols for Spectral Imaging creates opportunities for non-invasive analysis of a wide range of heritage and archival materials. In addition to the capacity to reveal hidden and non-visible information, the creation of spectral curves from the response of materials throughout the visible and non-visible wavelengths allows us to identify and characterize inks and colorants as well as track changes due to environment or conservation treatments. The use of spectral curves for this purpose requires a spectral library of reference materials that can be used for comparison and identification of these heritage materials. Advancing our capacity to non-invasively analyze documents, manuscripts, textiles and objects requires a rigorous standardized protocol that is reproducible and repeatable. Spectral curve analysis necessitates that all imaging metadata and parameters are consistent and materials are monitored to assure accurate replication.
Fenella. G. France, Meghan A. Wilson, Chris Bolser, "Advances in Spectral Imaging Curve Analysis for Humanities Studies and Heritage Science" in Proc. IS&T Archiving 2017, 2017, pp 122 - 126, https://doi.org/10.2352/issn.2168-3204.2017.1.0.122