Exploring How Micro-Computed Tomography Imaging Technology Impacts the Preservation of Paleontological Heritage
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Museums play an essential role in preserving both cultural and natural heritage, safeguarding samples that offer invaluable insights into our history and scientific understanding. The integration of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) has significantly advanced the study, restoration, and conservation of these priceless objects. This work explores the application of micro-CT across three critical areas of museum practice: sample virtualization, restoration assessment, and the analysis of fossil specimens. Specifically, micro-CT scanning was applied to fossils stored in the G.A.M.P.S. collection (Scandicci, Italy), enabling the creation of highly detailed non-invasive 3D models for digital archiving and virtual exhibitions. At the Opificio delle Pietre Dure in Florence, micro-CT was employed to evaluate fossil bone restoration treatments, focusing on the internal impact of menthol as a consolidant and its effects on the structural integrity of the material. Furthermore, micro-CT was utilized to investigate a sealed bee preserved in its cocoon within a paleosol in Costa Vicentina (Portugal), providing unprecedented insights into its internal anatomy and state of preservation, all while maintaining the integrity of the specimen. The results of this study underscore the versatility of micro-CT as a powerful non-destructive tool for advancing the fields of conservation, restoration, and scientific analysis of cultural and natural heritage. By integrating high-resolution imaging with both virtual and hands-on conservation strategies, micro-CT empowers museums to enhance research capabilities, improve preservation methodologies, and foster greater public engagement with their collections.
Source: Heritage
Authors: Michela Amendola, Andrea Barucci, Andrea Baucon, Chiara Zini, Claudia Borrelli, Simone Casati, Andrea di Cencio, Sandra Fiore, Salvatore Siano, Juri Agresti, Carlos Neto de Carvalho, Federico Bernardini, Girolamo Lo Russo, Alberto Collareta, Giulia Bosio
Institutions: Nello Carrara Institute of Applied Physics, National Research Council, University of Coimbra, University of Genoa, Azienda Usl Toscana Centro, Opificio delle Pietre Dure, UNESCO, University of Lisbon, Instituto Dom Luiz, The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), Ca' Foscari University of Venice, University of Pisa
Language: English
Subfield: Archeology (arts and humanities)
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,930
OpenAlex ID: W4412906809