UK HSCR landscape

Heritage science and conservation research (HSCR) is multifaceted and collaborative, drawing on disciplines spanning engineering, physical and social sciences, and the humanities; it is carried out by universities, organisations responsible for managing the UK’s heritage assets, and industry. HSCR explores scientifically and ethically sound methods and materials for the long-term understanding, preservation, enjoyment, and commercial exploitation of our heritage. HSCR is strongly public-facing – able to engage large audiences with the physical sciences through heritage and to contribute to promoting the heritage economy, which in England alone added c. £30 billion to GVA and was the driver behind 218.4 million trips in 2019, as outlined by Historic England.

The potential of HSCR to contribute to developments in adjacent fields (advanced visualisation, novel materials, sensors), as well as its centrality to ensuring the preservation and access to our shared cultural heritage was formally recognised in the UK by the 2006 House of Lords Science and Heritage report. Since then, commitment to the success of HSCR in the UK has been evidenced by investments like the AHRC-EPSRC Heritage and Science Programme (£8.1M, 2009-14); the EPSRC CDT in Science & Engineering in the Arts, Heritage and Archaeology (£4.7M, 2014-22); developments like the 2010 National Heritage Science Strategy and the 2018-2023 Strategic Framework for Heritage Science in the UK produced by the National Heritage Science Forum (NHSF, formed in 2013). HSCR was again highlighted in the 2019 by the UK National Commission for UNESCO in their report Cultural Heritage Innovation: Opportunities for International Development; in the 2020 UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Opportunities to Grow our Capacity report; and in the Arts and Humanities Research Council’s (AHRC) 2019 Delivery Plan.

Within the UK, forums for advocating and advancing the HSCR agenda include the NHSF, the Independent Research Organisation Consortium (IROC), which has several members engaged in HSCR, and E-RIHS UK, the national node of E-RIHS (European Research Infrastructure for Heritage Science), which is a European distributed infrastructure for HSCR with global ambitions.  A 2019 report commissioned by The Infrastructure and Access Working Group of E-RIHS UK found that there are at least 55 active HSCR facilities in the UK across the heritage, public, and higher education sectors, though informal sources suggest there may be closer to 80 such facilities.

In 2020, the AHRC was granted more than £15M through the UKRI World Class Labs programme, to create the Capability for Collections (CapCo) fund, in order to secure the future of the UK’s galleries, libraries, archives and museums. These funds were be invested in research and conservation labs and creative learning spaces that are central in the heritage sector’s ability to generate research and create marketable products. Much of the funding granted thus far has been for urgent upgrades to heritage science laboratories throughout the UK, and the replacement or upkeep of analytical equipment therein. In addition, in 2021, the AHRC funded three Infrastructure Policy & Engagement Fellowships in Heritage Science and Conservation as a part of its drive to create a distributed but integrated national HSCR infrastructure.

Most recently, in 2021, the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport released the report Valuing Culture and Heritage Capital: a framework towards informing decision making, which aims to create a formal approach to generating statistics and guidance that can be used to articulate ‘the value of the culture and heritage sectors in decision making.’ The framework, part of the Culture and Heritage Capital Programme, describes heritage science research as a method ‘to estimate the condition of physical assets, how this condition changes over time and how the condition affects the flow of benefits the assets produce.’ The report links the work of heritage scientists to conservation research in stating that heritage scientists are ‘best placed to estimate the impact of conserving assets and therefore rates of degradation and irreversible loss’. According to the report and the Culture and Heritage Capital Programme, to meet the above-mentioned aims, HSCR studies should be linked to economic valuation methodologies to provide evidence in decision making.

HSCR at The National Archives

Among organisations in the UK GLAM (galleries, libraries, archives, and museums) sector, The National Archives is the only archive with a fully equipped HSCR laboratory. As an AHRC-recognised IRO, we are eligible to receive funds for research, postgraduate training, and associated activities. With the support of the organisation and funds received from the Research Councils over the past decade, we have established a hub for student training and continuing professional development, and an incubator for challenge-led research, where heritage scientists and conservators work collectively to co-create projects and to address topics relevant to the conservation, preservation, and documentation of archival collections. Our studio is part of a dynamic, international network of HSC practitioner-researchers, hosting workshops and roundtables that foster knowledge exchange and enable collaboration with organisations that lack access to analytical capacity.

Our laboratory can be viewed as covering all four heritage science platforms, as defined by the international HSCR community (IPERION-CH and E-RIHS):

• MOLAB: our suite of portable, non-destructive analytical instruments.
• FIXLAB: our immobile laboratory, including our advanced imaging, analysis, and digitisation studios.
• ARCHLAB (physical archives of technical documentation, data, samples & reference collections): TNA’s collection, viewed through the collections as data lens, our documentation systems and the data acquired from our collections as they are studied and digitised.
• DIGILAB (digital archives as research resources and advanced digital tools for research): our research on HSCR documentation (AHRC Linked Conservation Data, collaboration with ResearchSpace), and the DIGILAB platform developed through our AHRC projects AI for DIGILAB and From Lima to Canton.

Over the past 5 years, we have invested more than £400,000 in new laboratory equipment purchases and upgrades, including a portable (p) XRF, an MFT, a p-FTIR, an MSI, a FORS, and an open-geometry Raman analyser. Acquisition of analytical equipment in the laboratory has been guided by four priorities: instruments should be (1) portable, so that research can be carried out in our repositories and at other GLAM organisations that lack capacity/capability; (2) non- or micro-destructive; (3) reflect our current and future research programme and collection’s needs; and (4) operable by HSCR staff, accessible to other research staff at TNA and our collaborating partners. The HSCR laboratory and Collection Care studios currently hosts a complete suite of analytical and imaging equipment for the non-destructive study of documentary collections. The equipment is detailed on the NHSF Kit-Catalogue and available for other organisations with existing expertise to borrow free of charge.

The staff in our studio are active members of the international HSCR community, undertaking original, interdisciplinary, and discovery-driven research that ensures the conservation of, and enduring access to, our cultural heritage collections, underscoring their value, and opening new avenues of research for humanists and specialists in adjacent sectors, creating a myriad of new understandings and engagement opportunities for the general public. Our HSCR team members have developed expertise in the field through working in world-leading laboratories at The Northwestern Center for Scientific Studies in the Arts, The Library of Congress, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Museum of Modern Art in New York, The British Museum, the Fitzwilliam Museum, Tate, The National Gallery, Washington D.C., University College London’s Institute for Sustainable Heritage and History of Art Material Studies Laboratory, and Historic Royal Palaces.

Our Team: members with a heritage science background and focus are highlighted in red, and with a preservation background and focus are highlighted in yellow. Members covering both areas are highlighted in orange. Many members of our Conservation Treatment and Conservation for Imaging teams (not included in the above organigram) undertake research independently or in collaboration with the Research team; we view our conservation staff as practitioners-researchers.

Purpose of this document:

The past three years have demonstrated the enthusiasm for, and breadth of research possible within our department, as well as the wealth of connections that forms our departmental network, within and beyond TNA. There have been many challenges, including team restructures, Covid-19-imposed limitations on working on site and constraints on our time at home, an expanding engagement programme and its requisite time commitments, creating development opportunities for staff, and finding the right balance between external and internal-facing research priorities.

Historically, our research projects and initiatives were categorised under the following overlapping headings:

• Material Analysis
• Preservation and Environment
• Imaging
• Digital
• Treatment
• Instrumentation/Technology

HSCR projects were allowed to organically emerge during assessment of collection items that need conservation attention, the environmental management needs of the collection, conversations around planned loans and exhibitions, approaches from external collaborators, historic/material interest from TNA CEE members and external partners. Funding applications have been prioritised ad hoc based on:

• Themes of current funding calls
• Staff expertise and interests
• Approaches by external collaborators
• Potential/requirements of the collection

Projects revolving around material analysis and treatment were prevalent, many include imaging and digital platform development or implementation. As our capacity and reputation for HSCR has grown, so has our involvement in funded research projects. We are commonly approached by colleagues in the sector with new project ideas, while simultaneously, conservation staff in the Collection Care are also rapidly developing new ideas that require HSCR support. A research strategy will help to visualise our current strengths and weaknesses, outline our mission and vision so that we can define research goals in line with our departmental, organisational, and professional affiliations; it will provide a framework for prioritising projects, measuring impact, and an argument for resource allocation.

HSCR Research Strategy

Mission:

The HSCR mission is aligned with that of the Collection Care Department in its aims to guarantee access and ensure the health to the collections held in The National Archives through innovative programmes of environmental management, conservation treatment, and documentation, and to enhance understanding of the collections through cross-disciplinary heritage science research.

Vision:

To establish, define, and foster the development of the field of documentary and archival heritage science and conservation research, showcasing and enabling the innovation and engagement potentials facilitated by analytical studies of documentary collections; to serve as a sector leader and international hub offering advice and developing policy around the technical study, advanced care, documentation and access of large-scale and archival collections; to become ‘digital by design’ by streamlining our data collection, management and interpretation processes and by identifying opportunities to address the needs of archival collection users through the integration of advanced digital methods with traditional heritage science research; and to develop a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative research agenda, focused on collections created by, or concerning underrepresented communities and histories.

Strategic themes and priorities

Our vision will be achieved through activity under the following four strategic themes and their underlying priorities. Existing and new projects and funding proposals will be prioritised based on their scope and benefit to our vision, through their potential to meet at least one, but preferably several of our strategic themes.

1. Collaborative

We will strengthen existing and secure new collaborative partnerships with colleagues in the HSCR sector and adjacent fields; we will explicitly seek to work with underrepresented communities; and we will put our expertise to practice in shaping national and international research priorities and policy decisions in HSCR.

Strategic priorities:

• Research initiatives that create new bonds, strengthen existing networks, and that in particular, connect us with archives and documentary collections in the UK and abroad.
• Initiatives that create opportunities to directly work with underrepresented communities through (1) employment opportunities, (2) co-creation of research projects that focus on collections created by, with or about these communities, (3) volunteering opportunities, (4) mentoring, and (5) knowledge-exchange and engagement with schools.
• Actively serving in the HSCR national and international networks by, for example, (1) maintaining our NHSF membership and serving on the Board of Trustees and Members Council, convening and participating in the working groups tasked with delivering the strategic framework for heritage science; (2) serving on the committee of The Institute of Conservation Heritage Science Group; (3) contributing to, or serving on the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Heritage Science Expert working group; (4) contributing to surveying and impact assessment exercises, meetings and discussions with the E-RIHS UK and E-RIHS; and (5) serving on the AHRC’s Heritage Science Infrastructure Advisory Group for the development of a second phase proposal to UKRI.

2. Digital

We will become ‘digital by design’ by streamlining our data collection, management and interpretation processes and by identifying opportunities to address the needs of archival collection users through the integration of advanced digital methods with traditional heritage science research.

Strategic priorities:

• Work closely with partners who are developing advanced data management and documentation methods for HSCR (e.g., Linked Conservation Data, ResearchSpace); seek out such partnerships specific to heritage science data processing and management and ensure that this information is integrated into our collection management practices.
• Ensure all existing and new HSCR data is FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable).
• Contribute to the development of DIGILAB platforms that allow data management and open access to our HSCR outputs and create advanced data processing and interpretation methods.

3. Unruly & Emergent

We will strive to be at the frontier of archival HSCR, defining and fostering the field and serving as a sector leader by actively liaising and sharing our expertise and ideas with other archives around the world.

Strategic priorities:

• Develop new ways of ‘reading’ the archive by demonstrating the potential of existing technologies and developing new tools and methods for uncovering artefactual or obscured information in our collections.
• Work closely with colleagues in the field of Digital Humanities to explore the cross-over between heritage science research and collections as data; develop and define the field of Computational Archival Heritage Science.
• By working closely with the conservation team and colleagues in the sector, contribute to mapping the current state of archival conservation practice, rethinking the concept and consequences of scientific conservation, and actively participating in breaking down barriers between siloed conservation and preservation cultures (e.g., archival vs book, paper, and modern material conservation, physical vs digital preservation).
• Explore research possibilities at the intersection of archival preservation practice and environmentally sustainable operations.

4. Integrated & Impactful:

We will prioritise research that creates opportunities for knowledge exchange, learning and development, and advancement of our conservation team as practitioner-researchers who identify and steer research in their own collection care practice.

Strategic priorities:

• Ensure that outcomes of our research are disseminated through a variety of channels, both formal (academic, professional) and social (widely accessible).
• Seek out projects and initiatives that allow for mentoring and supervision, working at all education levels, from school age to Early Career Researchers.
• Work to advance apprenticeship opportunities for HSCR.
• Engage with the entire Collection Care team to create learning and development opportunities and knowledge-exchange initiatives that ensure the benefits of HSC research reach all of our team members.
• Seek out projects that generate opportunities for wider knowledge-exchange and ideation with the HSCR community through workshops and roundtables that can be hosted at The National Archives.

Outcomes

The aim of this strategy is to create a framework that promotes connections between ideas that at first may seem disparate; to aid in project planning and implementation through highlighting a set of themes and priorities that can guide our decision-making and resource distribution. Success will take form in the realisation of research projects that harness and focus our team’s expertise, allow for further growth and development in areas that we are less comfortable, and create opportunities for knowledge exchange within our department, our organisation, the broader HSCR community, and beyond.

An outcome may be, for example, securing funding for a collaborative project, which connects us to new and/or existing partners (especially archives and libraries) to co-create avenues of research on collections related to under-represented communities, with, and led by the needs of members of those communities, and with implications for the conservation, access to, or material understanding of these collections. Through the framework established here, we would seek to achieve the aims of the project with members from that community, be they conservators, early career researchers, volunteers or apprentices; we would ensure that all data produced during the project is FAIR and managed through our new database (e.g., ResearchSpace), and if relevant, makes use of, or aids in the development of Digilab platforms. The research might showcase new and unforeseen ways of ‘reading the archive’ or employ and foreground local practices of care and access. The progress and findings of the work would be communicated through social and formal means, through engagement with school groups and professional workshops. Finally, the relevance of new practices or understandings that emerge through the research would be related back to our organisational strategy or professional strategic frameworks.

Investigating the printing techniques of historic marbled paper using microscopy.

What we can do

We use science to analyse our archival collection, which enhances our knowledge and understanding of our archival materials for research, preservation and access decision-making.

We are building our scientific infrastructure and capacity so we can offer our expertise and provide external access to our cutting-edge scientific instruments and equipment to the archive and wider heritage sector. In doing this, we aim to support and strengthen the written heritage sector’s ability to safeguard collections.

We are developing several models to provide external access to our expertise and equipment:

• From April 2026 we will be able to provide access to our expertise and analytical capabilities through the Research Infrastructure for Conservation and Heritage Science (RICHeS) programme.
• We are improving our process of offering external science clinics to help small archives enhance their preservation capabilities through a greater understanding of the materiality and degradation of their collections.

RICHeS

What is RICHeS?

The Research Infrastructure for Conservation and Heritage Science (RICHeS) programme is a significant investment in the UK’s heritage sector, funded by the UKRI Arts and Humanities Research Council.

The programme has enabled the development of a distributed heritage science infrastructure across the UK and supported innovative investments in the latest scientific equipment. The purpose is to provide access for the wider heritage sector to heritage science facilities at 17 host institutions across the UK, of which The National Archives is proud to be one. The catalogue of the various services offered by the institutions is available here.

As part of the RICHeS funding, The National Archives were awarded two strands covering the access to our physical infrastructure (Facilities) and the development of a catalogue of data to feed into a national repository.

Our scientific instruments and infrastructure

To provide state-of-the-art infrastructure and best possible access to RICHeS participants, we have upgraded our laboratories, enlarged our strong-room facilities to accommodate incoming collection materials for analysis, and acquired new imaging equipment to enhance and complement our existing research capability and engagement services. Explore the full list of our scientific instruments and our analytical capabilities.

Heritage Science Data Service

We document and keep important records of the condition, conservation treatments and heritage science analysis results of documents in our collection. Our vision is to share our conservation and heritage science data and knowledge base with the wider archive and heritage sector. To this end we are further developing our data to feed into a national heritage science data repository (HSDS). This is part of a gigantic effort to make heritage science and conservation research data findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable. Search the catalogue and learn more about the contributing partner organisations.

Our aims

As The Written Heritage Science Laboratory (WHSL) within RICHeS, we are dedicated to the scientific study of written heritage materials. Our work focuses on the physical materials that make up our written heritage, including works on paper, parchment, photographs, inks, pigments and book bindings. These documents are the carriers of recorded knowledge and cultural expression, encompassing both textual and visual materials. WHSL represents a long-term commitment to understanding and caring for these materials. It brings together heritage science, conservation research, archival expertise, and public access, fostering innovation and collaboration across the archive and library sectors.

Our three core aims are:

• Deepening understanding of materials to reveal how historical objects were made, used, and experienced
• Advancing conservation strategies through scientific insight
• Supporting safer and more meaningful access to archival materials

Our work supports inclusive access, evidence-based decision-making, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

How to get involved

To get involved in the RICHeS programme and receive funding for scientific analysis on your collection by one of the host institutions, apply through the RICHeS website.

Case studies

We approach our research using a range of non-invasive scientific techniques. These include X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, microfade testing, reflectance spectroscopy (FORS), and multi- and hyper-spectral imaging. These methods allow researchers to study the chemical and physical properties of documents.

This work helps:

• Reveal how materials were made, used, and altered over time
• Inform treatment decisions for complex or hazardous items
• Enhance the legibility and interpretive potential of damaged or obscured content

Explore case study examples of our work here.

Our heritage science research projects involve collaborative working with researchers across multiple disciplines.

Enhancing the readability of archival documents

Enhancing the readability of archival documents through scientific techniques is a dynamic and evolving field of research. By using advanced methods, we can reveal text and images that were previously obscured or faded. This improves our ability to read and interpret historical documents without causing damage.

These techniques can make illegible writing legible, visualize the content of sealed letters, and probe the insides of books and rolls that cannot be physically opened. By minimizing the need for direct handling, these innovations help preserve the integrity of delicate documents.

Our ongoing research continues to refine and expand these innovative methods. This work is crucial for preserving the materiality within our collection, whilst at the same time ensuring its contents are accessible and comprehensive for future generations.

Relevant published materials:

• Advanced Microspatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy for Noninvasive Imaging of Concealed Texts and Figures Using Raman Signal, Fluorescence Emission, and Overall Spectral Intensity
• Advanced imaging to recover illegible text in historic documents: The challenge of past chemical treatments for ink enhancement

UV-induced visible luminescence imaging used to enhance the readability of illegible music sheets on parchment.

Hazards and poisonous materials

The National Archives’ collection includes materials that can pose a risk to access and safe handling. These include toxic pigments and hazards used in past conservation interventions, such as the application of pesticides. By researching and understanding these risks, we can develop safer handling protocols and conservation techniques.

Our ongoing research focuses on both identifying and mitigating these hazards. Future research projects will explore innovative methods for detecting and neutralising harmful substances. This area of study is vital for preserving the integrity and accessibility of our archival collections as well as ensuring that conservators, researchers and the public can interact with these documents safely.

By prioritizing safety in our conservation efforts, we protect not only the documents themselves but also the health and well-being of those who study and preserve them. This commitment to safety ensures that valuable historical collections can be accessed and enjoyed by future generations without compromising their preservation.

You can read more on the types of hazards that can be found in archival collections here:

• The use of ‘poisonous insecticidal solutions’ in bookbinding: coping with historic pesticide treatments in the archive
• Identification, transformations and mobility of hazardous arsenic-based pigments on 19th century bookbindings in accessible library collections

A collection of labels indicating insecticide in bindings.

Understanding history through materiality

Through scientific research and analysis of the materials and techniques used in the creation of objects within our collection, we can uncover valuable information about the cultural, technological, and economic contexts of different historical periods. Using advanced techniques, such as spectroscopy, microscopy, and chemical analysis, we are able to precisely identify materials including pigments, inks, paper, and textiles. This knowledge helps historians understand the origins, trade routes, and technological advancements of past societies.

Material analysis can additionally reveal details about previous conservation methods, which offers insights for current and future preservation efforts. Moreover, understanding the material composition and degradation processes aids the development of informed and innovative conservation strategies, ensuring the longevity of these objects.

Through these scientific investigations, we help preserve historical objects as well as enriching our understanding of the narratives they embody. Our interdisciplinary approach bridges the gap between science and history, allowing us to explore the material culture of the past with unprecedented depth and accuracy.

Find out more in our blogs and published materials:

• The pannotype mystery: Part 1 – historic photographic processes in Design Registers
• The pannotype mystery: Part 2 – identifying rare historic photographic processes
• Beautifully wrapped in silk: Medieval seal bags unravelled
• Medieval Seal Bags Unravelled
• Minimally Invasive Vacuum-Aided Extraction Technique for the Lipid Analysis of Historic Parchment

Material characterisation through scientific analysis.

Scientific analysis using Raman spectroscopy to identify the pigments used.

Our specialised laboratory spaces are designed to enhance our research and analytical capabilities and provide facilities for hosting conservation workshops and training. We have four laboratories onsite at Kew: analytical; dark; wet; and dry.

Our analytical capabilities are defined by the instruments we invest in. Below is a list of the instruments we have in our laboratories, organised by the analytical techniques they can perform. These are:

• Ageing and stability
• Molecular analysis
• Elemental analysis
• Imaging

Ageing and stability

Microfadometry (MFT)

Microfadometry is a non-invasive technique used to assess the light sensitivity of materials such as inks, dyes, and pigments, by exposing a tiny area to controlled light while monitoring any colour changes.

In the archive and library sectors, it helps heritage professionals evaluate the risk of fading in historical documents, manuscripts, or any coloured artwork, guiding decisions on display conditions, lightning and storage to ensure long-term preservation. This method allows institutions to protect fragile items without causing damage, balancing access with conservation.

Ageing chamber

Artificial ageing using an ageing chamber is a controlled method that accelerates the natural deterioration of materials by exposing them to factors like light, heat, humidity, and pollutants.

In the archive and library sectors, this technique is used to simulate the long-term effects of environmental conditions on paper, parchments, inks, bindings, and other materials. By predicting how items may degrade over time, conservators can assess the durability of materials and make informed decisions on preservation strategies, ensuring the long-term protection of historical documents and artefacts. It can also be used in preventive conservation projects, helping heritage professionals better understand long-term effect of climate on historical documents.

Light fastness testing with microfadometry.

Molecular analysis

Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)

FTIR is a powerful analytical technique used to identify the molecular composition of materials by measuring how they absorb infrared light.

In the archive and library sectors, FTIR helps the heritage professionals analyse the chemical makeup of paper, inks, adhesives, and other materials and their degradation products in historical documents, books, and other artefacts. This information is crucial for understanding the condition of items, diagnosing degradation processes, and selecting appropriate conservation treatments, all while being non-destructive and non- (or minimally-) invasive to the objects being studied.

Fibre Optic Reflectance Spectroscopy (FORS)

FORS is a non-invasive technique used to analyse the optical properties of materials by measuring how light reflects off surfaces.

In the archive and library sectors, FORS is employed to survey pigments, inks, and surface coatings in historical documents, manuscripts, and artworks. Its portability and ability to work without physical contact make it ideal for fragile items, providing valuable insights into the composition and condition of materials, which aids in conservation and preservation efforts.

Raman Spectroscopy

Raman spectroscopy is a non-invasive and non-destructive technique used to identify the molecular composition of materials by measuring the scattering of light.

In the archive and library sectors, it is invaluable for analysing the chemical structure of pigments, inks, and dyes in historical documents and artworks.

Variants like Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) and Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) expand its capabilities, allowing for the identification of organic dyes or identifying materials through opaque layers.

These techniques enable more detailed and sensitive analyses, helping heritage professionals diagnose and preserve fragile items in archives and libraries.

FTIR analysis on a Board of Trade volume in our collection.

Elemental analysis

X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)

XRF is a non-invasive analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of materials by detecting the characteristic X-rays emitted when elements are exposed to an X-ray source.

In the archive and library sectors, XRF is commonly applied to identify pigments, inks, metals, and other materials in historical documents, manuscripts, and artefacts, providing valuable insights into the materials used in cultural heritage objects without causing any damage. The technique can also be used in imaging mode, known as X-ray Fluorescence Imaging (XRF Imaging), which maps the spatial distribution of elements across the object’s surface. XRF Imaging reveals additional details such as hidden layers, corrections, or compositional changes in manuscripts, artworks, and other items. This enhanced capability allows conservators to better understand the structure and history of objects, supporting more informed conservation and restoration decisions.

XRF imaging elemental maps of wrapped seals to visualise, without unwrapping them, the seals’ condition and elemental composition.

Imaging

Multispectral Imaging (MSI)

MSI is a non-invasive technique that captures images of an object across different wavelengths of light, from ultraviolet to infrared.

In the archive and library sectors, MSI is used to reveal hidden details in historical documents, manuscripts, and artworks, such as faded text, underdrawings, or erased annotations. By analysing the way materials react to various wavelengths, MSI helps conservators and researchers identify materials, assess damage, and guide preservation strategies, all without physically impacting the objects being studied.

Reflectance Imaging Spectroscopy (RIS)

RIS is a non-invasive technique that captures images across a range of wavelengths to analyse the surface composition of materials.

In the archive and library sectors, RIS is used to detect and map pigments, inks, and other materials in historical documents, manuscripts, and artworks. By revealing details not visible to the naked eye, such as hidden layers or faded text, RIS helps conservators and researchers understand the condition and composition of objects, aiding in preservation and restoration efforts without causing damage.

Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry is a technique that creates accurate 3D digital models by analysing photographs taken from multiple angles.

In the archive and library sectors, it is used to document and preserve the physical characteristics of fragile historical documents, books, and artifacts. By capturing detailed surface and structural data, photogrammetry aids in monitoring changes over time, such as wear or damage, without handling the items. It also allows for the creation of digital replicas, enhancing access for research and virtual exhibitions while supporting long-term preservation efforts.

It can also be used to create 3D models that can be used for 3D printing replicas, which can be used for training or education purposes.

Multispectral imaging from top left to bottom right: visible light, near infrared reflected, infrared reflected false colour, UV reflected false colour.

Saul Nassé is Chief Executive of the National Archives, Keeper of Public Records and Historical Manuscripts Commissioner. He holds the offices of King’s Printer of Acts of Parliament and King’s Printer for Scotland and is King’s Printer for Wales.  He is also appointed as the Government Printer for Northern Ireland and Controller of His Majesty’s Stationery Office.

Through these roles, Saul is responsible for overseeing the integrity of the public records system of England, Wales and the United Kingdom and The National Archives’ work as the official publisher of authoritative versions of legislation and official Gazettes.  He is also responsible for the licensing of Crown copyright. Saul leads a team of over 600 people, providing strategic vision for the organisation as it carries out its vital role as guardian of over 1,000 years of iconic national documents.  The team also work to lead the Archive Sector in England.

Saul has had an extensive career in education and media, having previously served as Group Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment, the University’s examinations business, and as Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment English. Prior to that, he was Controller of BBC Learning, running the department that commissioned and produced educational content including BBC Bitesize, Stargazing Live and BBC Food. During his time at the BBC, Saul oversaw the Domesday Reloaded project – inspired by one of our most famous documents – which brought online a vast multimedia archive from 1986, contributed to by over a million members of the public.

Alison is an experienced Non-Executive Director and consultant who works with diverse organisations usually undergoing transition and change.

Her executive background is in business, having led operations and commercial negotiation for the Royal Mail Group and at a range of organisations in turnaround as an interim Chief Executive.

Alison now holds a portfolio of appointments and interests, including as Lead Non-Executive Director for the Office of the Secretary of State for Wales. She chairs audit committees in diverse areas of public services, advising organisations about governance and risk. In all of these areas she blends strong strategic, financial and commercial skills with professional expertise in corporate governance, risk management, stakeholder engagement, Board accountability, proportionate regulation and the transformation of organisational performance. Alison also chairs confidential investigations and whistleblowing inquiries.

Gemma is responsible for leading and co-ordinating our innovative research, heritage science and conservation programmes. She aims to further The National Archives’ engagement and collaboration with researchers across the cultural heritage, higher education, academic and archive sectors. Gemma is also responsible for growing and diversifying our income and funding streams, developing commercial products and services, delivering value for money, and embedding an entrepreneurial culture and ethos at The National Archives.

Gemma has 20 years’ experience in the public and private sectors. She started her career at the Imperial War Museum, working across their public engagement and commercial areas, with a focus on publishing and licensing, before moving into non-fiction book publishing, managing lists across a range of genres including history, popular science, art and design, again with a focus on home and international licenses. She joined The National Archives as Head of Licensing, Publishing and Digitisation in 2017.

Gemma has a degree in History from University College London.

Following the departure of Neil Curtis, former Chief Operating Officer, Gemma has taken on responsibility for IT Operations and Estates and Facilities on an interim basis.