Panel Paintings Inspection Analysis Using Active Thermography in the Mid-Wave and Long-Wave Infrared Region

Abstract

Active thermography was used for characterisation of multi-layered paintings panel structures and analysis of defects caused by aging and environmental effects. Pulsed Thermography setup was applied to provide and inspect a dynamic thermal response, which was recorded by mid- and long wavelength infrared TELOPS cameras. Control, synchronization and data analyses were provided by Professional software (DisplayImg 7). Active thermography was demonstrated as being appropriate for characterization of various defects on painting layers and detection of under-drawings, pentimenti and canvas. Such multispectral approach provided simultaneous complementary information on the specimen under inspection.