SEPIA
Quantitative hyperspectral imager
The SEPIA hyperspectral imager is a novel scientific instrument dedicated to the quantitative analysis and condition monitoring of historic documents. The document is placed in the field-of-view of the monochrome 4 mega-pixel CCD camera inside the SEPIA. The document is then illuminated by special wavelength tunable light sources at 73 different, narrow spectral bands in the wavelength range from 365 to 1100 nm (near-UV, visible and near-infrared light).
The SEPIA instrument provides for all spectral bands calibrated high-resolution digital images, which visualize the spectral characteristics of the measured document. For each pixel of the image the absolute spectral reflectance curve of the corresponding minute object area is measured. This data can for instance be used to map the distribution of certain pigments and to identify these pigments.
During the measurements the amount of light absorbed by the object during the measurement is at all times kept to an absolute minimum and is far less than the light levels considered safe for exhibition.
In addition to the precise spectral reflectance measurement the SEPIA hyperspectral imager can also be used for quantitative fluorescence and luminescence imaging. The SEPIA can record calibrated fluorescence and luminescence images at as much as 110 spectral bands. Combined with the 73 reflectance bands, in total 180 spectral values for every location on the document are recorded.
Downloads
Art Innovation has compiled a DVD with much information about the multi and hyperspectral imaging technique. This information DVD can be ordered free of charge. Please contact Art Innovation if you want to order this DVD.
SEPIA brochure 2011 (I)
pdf file 3600 kB
SEPIA brochure 2010 (I)
pdf file 3400 kB
SEPIA brochure 2008 (I)
pdf file 1600 kB
SEPIA brochure modern writing materials (II)
pdf file 700 kB
SEPIA brochure discrimination of writing (III)
pdf file 600 kB
Hyper Spectral Imaging, background information
pdf file 3500 kB
International Preservation News
pdf file 3713 kB
Quantitative Hyperspectral Reflectance Imaging
M.E. Klein, B.J. Aalderink, R. Padoan, G. de Bruin, Th.A.G. Steemers, Sensors, 8, 5576-5618, 2008