The infrastructure of E-RIHS NL represents scientific research into the material composition of cultural and natural heritage objects, their ageing processes and material dynamics, advanced methods for conservation treatment, in-depth understanding of production processes, as well as of the significance and art historical context of the objects, storage and accessibility of digital collections of data and information. The focus is on heritage research and data / metadata generated by analytical investigation (such as research reports, spectra, reference collections, and so on).
The following four research instruments are cornerstones of the E-RIHS network (both national and international):
FIXLAB Key fixed facilities for heritage science research – e.g. particle accelerators, neutron and laser sources and other essentially non-transportable research facilities, such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDX), High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC-PDA), Mass Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), or Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS).
MOLAB Access to a comprehensive selection of mobile analytical instrumentation for non-invasive measurements, ranging from point analysis, 2D/3D imaging, hyperspectral imaging and remote sensing, to portable RAMAN spectrometer and portable XRD analyser. The instrumentation can be used for cultural heritage objects, collections, buildings and sites, allowing in-situ investigations for complex multi-technique diagnostic projects.
ARCHLAB Access to physical (and digital) data collections that constitute valuable research resources, such as objects, technical images, samples and reference materials, analytical data and conservation documentation, as stored in museums, galleries, conservation and research institutions, including related unique expertise.
DIGILAB Providing access to large digital data collections on scientific investigation, art historical information, archaeological sites and monuments. Facilitating the storage of and access to project results carried out during E-RIHS and associated research programmes.