Non-invasive photoacoustic detection of hidden underdrawings in paintings using air-coupled transducers

George J Tserevelakis; Panagiotis Siozos; Athanasia Papanikolaou; Kristalia Melessanaki; Giannis Zacharakis

doi:10.1016/j.ultras.2019.06.008

Non-invasive photoacoustic detection of hidden underdrawings in paintings using air-coupled transducers

Ultrasonics. 2019 Sep:98:94-98. doi: 10.1016/j.ultras.2019.06.008. Epub 2019 Jun 12.

Authors

George J Tserevelakis¹, Panagiotis Siozos², Athanasia Papanikolaou², Kristalia Melessanaki², Giannis Zacharakis²

Affiliations

¹ Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser, N. Plastira 100, Heraklion, Crete GR-70013, Greece. Electronic address: tserevel@iesl.forth.gr.
² Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser, N. Plastira 100, Heraklion, Crete GR-70013, Greece.

PMID: 31233981
DOI: 10.1016/j.ultras.2019.06.008

Abstract

We demonstrate the application of a fully non-contact and non-invasive photoacoustic (PA) imaging system integrating a high sensitivity spherically focused air-coupled ultrasonic transducer, for the uncovering of hidden underdrawings in paintings. By selectively transforming optical absorption information into ultrasonic waves which propagate virtually unobstructed through the paint layers, PA signals provide specific imaging of underlying pencil sketches even for paints presenting high optical scattering and absorption properties. The developed system could be employed for case studies involving the investigation of paintings with historical significance, considerably complementing the capabilities of existing methods.

Keywords: Art conservation; Cultural heritage; Non-destructive; Non-invasive; Paintings; Photoacoustic imaging.