Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche
Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (National Research Council, CNR) is the largest public research institution in Italy, operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Research. It conducts interdisciplinary scientific research across many fields of knowledge.It was founded in 1923 as a central body coordinating the development of science and innovation. Its mission is to carry out research, support industrial innovation, and advise public administration. CNR employs more than 8,000 staff members, most of whom are researchers and technologists. In addition, thousands of young scientists take part in postgraduate studies and training programs.The organization’s structure includes departments, research institutes, and affiliated units. One of its key institutes is the “Nello Carrara” Institute of Applied Physics (IFAC). The institute was established in Florence through the merger of centers for electromagnetic wave research and quantum electronics. IFAC conducts research in applied physics and ICT technologies. An important area of its activity is the protection of cultural heritage. Within IFAC operates the LASBEC group, specializing in laser techniques for the conservation of artworks. For over twenty years, it has developed optoelectronic technologies for the diagnosis and restoration of works of art. The team has participated in international conservation projects and work on outstanding monuments, including sculptures by Donatello and Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise. Thanks to this research, laser cleaning has become an internationally recognized conservation best practice. The group consists of around ten specialists from the fields of physics, chemistry, engineering, geology, and conservation. It develops portable systems for microscopic and spectroscopic material analysis and degradation monitoring. IFAC laboratories are equipped with advanced laser technologies for the diagnosis and conservation of ceramics and other materials. The team conducts research on the authentication and restoration of ceramic artifacts and publishes results in renowned scientific journals. Thanks to its research and training experience, CNR and IFAC-LASBEC are important partners in projects related to the protection and restoration of cultural heritage.
