Utilization of Nuclear-Based Analytical Techniques for Characterization and Preservation Studies of Cultural Heritage in Indonesia: Current Progress, Challenges, and Future Outlook Moh Mualliful Ilmi
Research Centre for Archaeometry, National Research and Innovation Agency of Indonesia (BRIN)
Abstract
Indonesia boasts a rich tapestry of cultural heritage artifacts spanning from the prehistoric to the modern colonial and post-colonial eras, offering invaluable insights into ancient artistic techniques, materials, and historical periods. Our research group, in collaboration with fellow scholars, has embarked on pioneering efforts to unravel the material complexities of Indonesian cultural artifacts. Leveraging a diverse array of nuclear-based analytical tools such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), synchrotron X-ray diffraction (SR-XRD), and X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy (XANES), alongside complementary laboratory techniques including Raman spectroscopy and microscopic observations using optical and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), we have delved into the physicochemical properties of these artifacts. This integrated approach has yielded significant findings on optical characteristics, elemental compositions, mineralogical structures, electronic properties, microstructures, and elemental distributions at microscopic scales across artifact surfaces. Beyond material analysis, our research addresses the degradation processes affecting various cultural heritage items, from rock art and pottery to bones and other materials. Moving forward, our aim is to expand these investigations to comprehensively analyze deterioration mechanisms and devise effective preservation strategies for these irreplaceable cultural treasures. While our efforts have been fruitful, challenges remain, particularly concerning the limitations of portable analytical instruments that hinder on-site non-destructive analysis and micro-sampling. Future directions include the exploration of advanced imaging techniques such as hyperspectral imaging and reconstruction methodologies, which are pivotal for advancing our understanding and preservation efforts.
