As part of the “Joining the Shards” project, we are proud to work with the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (National Research Council, CNR) – Italy’s largest public research institution.
Founded in 1923, CNR conducts interdisciplinary research, supports innovation and provides scientific expertise to public administration. With more than 8,000 staff members, including researchers and technologists, CNR plays a key role in advancing science and technology in Italy.
One of its key institutes is the “Nello Carrara” Institute of Applied Physics (IFAC) in Florence. IFAC conducts research in applied physics and ICT, with an important focus on the protection and conservation of cultural heritage.
Within IFAC operates the LASBEC group, a multidisciplinary team specializing in laser technologies for the diagnosis and conservation of artworks. For more than 20 years, the group has developed innovative optoelectronic technologies for analysing, restoring and monitoring cultural heritage objects.
Its specialists have contributed to international conservation projects involving outstanding works of art, including sculptures by Donatello and Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise. Their research has helped establish laser cleaning as an internationally recognized conservation practice.
The LASBEC team brings together experts in physics, chemistry, engineering, geology and conservation. Its laboratories are equipped with advanced laser technologies for the diagnosis and conservation of ceramics and other materials, while portable systems enable microscopic and spectroscopic analysis.
Within the “Joining the Shards” project, CNR and IFAC-LASBEC contribute their expertise in innovative technologies for the analysis, conservation and restoration of ceramic artefacts.
By combining scientific research, cutting-edge technology and conservation expertise, CNR helps us explore new ways to protect and valorise ceramic heritage affected by war and conflict.
Joining the Shards project is co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ Programme.
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