InsightART’s x-ray imaging systems are based on high-tech photon counting cameras that originate from particle physics experiments. Our 2D and 3D RToo x-ray scanners use customised WidePIX x-ray imaging detectors developed by our parent company, ADVACAM, which measure the wavelength of individual photons at a resolution of 55 µm or better. This gives us the possibility to create x-ray images with an unprecedented number of grey levels (contrast) and enables us to identify the elemental composition (materials) of art objects.
Because of our scanners’ ability to detect very small differences in x-ray attenuation in the sample, we are able to discern much more information compared to standard x-ray imaging systems. The resulting images provide you with unprecendented insight into the internal structure and composition of the scanned object.
Our game-changing x-ray imaging technology also allows for the precise detection of later modifications of an examined art object’s (micro-) structure and creates a full-scale map of the extent and type of damage or modification. The resulting full-scale microscopic map is an invaluable tool in the discovery of forged paintings and other fine art objects and also assists in the authentication of art by delivering exact forensic data.
Offered methods
As part of our comprehensive service offer, we employ the following imaging methods to each scanned object:
High-resolution x-ray radiography (HRXR)
Full-area high-resolution black-and-white scan
HRXR imaging provides a fully digital grey-scale x-ray image of fine art objects that greatly exceeds the quality of standard x-ray images in terms of detail resolution and detectability. The superior image quality brings insight into the internal microscopic structure of the artwork at the full scale of the scanned object.
Material resolving (colour) x-ray radiography (MRXR)
Full-area high-resolution “colour” scan showing material composition
MRXR is a high-end technique that offers a pseudo-colour x-ray image of fine art objects, where colours are associated with different material (pigment) groups identified in the artwork. The material map is measured at high spatial resolution, which allows for exceptionally detailed resolution and detectability. The material map and superior image quality bring unprecedented insight into the internal microscopic structure and material composition of the artwork at the full scale of the scanned object.
Black and white scan / colour scan with colours assigned to different pigments
Resolution of 150 µm / 50 µm
High noise / low noise
Computed tomography (CT)
CT scanning is a powerful new addition to RToo’s state-of-the-art toolbox, ideally suited for 3D imaging of sculptures and statuary. Our bespoke CT scanner combines the advantages of RToo’s advanced imaging with robotic technology to give you maximum flexibility to scan specific areas of an artwork. Another significant benefit is the ability to make CT scans at our custom-built facilities, avoiding the currently common necessity of transporting art to hospitals to be scanned by CT machines not designed for the purpose.
- scan volume: cca ∅15×30 cm *
- ability to scan a region-of-interest (ROI) of a large object
- arbitrary orientation of the scanned ROI
* current tested range. The scan volume may depend on ROI orientation. Large scan volume range is under development and will be implemented by software update.
Interested to hear more about our technology?
Please contact Josef for personal presentation or visit one of our Demo Days in Prague.