Speaker
Description
The INFN CHNet Milano-Bicocca group plays a pivotal role in advancing neutron-based methodologies for Heritage Science, focussing on the development of strictly non-destructive investigative protocols. A key research frontier currently being explored, in close synergy with the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (UK), is the implementation of 4D neutron imaging. By exploiting resonance features at epithermal energies, this
approach extends the capabilities of standard neutron imaging to the study of complex, heterogeneous materials that remain opaque to conventional probes, while simultaneously providing isotopic sensitivity [1,2].
Under the framework of the CHNet_BRONZE project, the Milano-Bicocca section contributes to the optimization of three neutron-based techniques for the quantitative characterization of archaeological copper-based alloys. Specifically, our research leads the refining of Neutron Resonance Transmission Imaging (NRTI) to map and quantify alloy compositions, major components, and trace elements within the bulk of artifacts. The enhanced contrast capability of NRTI allows for a complementary understanding of ancient technological choices, manufacturing processes, and material heterogeneity.
Beyond methodological innovation, the Milano-Bicocca section is deeply integrated into national and international collaborations, employing a multi-modal approach which comprises neutron imaging and neutron diffraction. Recent successful applications include the investigation of meteorite collections in cross-collaboration with Pavia section, the analysis of the medieval Chiaravalle Cross’s golden filigree [3] in partnership with the ANSTO reactor, and the archaeometallurgical study of Nuragic-period objects [4], demonstrating the versatility and impact of neutron probes in cultural heritage preservation.
References
[1] Marcucci, G., et al. Mapping the elemental distribution in archaeological findings through advanced Neutron Resonance Transmission Imaging. Eur. Phys. J. Plus 139, 475 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1140/epjp/s13360-024-05222-y
[2] Marcucci, G., et al. Isotopic imaging with epithermal neutrons at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source. Sci Rep 15, 19344 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-04283-y7
[3] Vigorelli, L., et al. High resolution neutron tomography as non-invasive tool for the study of a filigree from the Medieval Chiaravalle Cross. Archaeol Anthropol Sci 17, 138 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12520-025-02254-y
[4] Cataldo, M., et al. Compositional and morphological study of a Nuragic bronze figurine with neutron diffraction and neutron tomography, submitted to JINST.