Diagnostic Science Laboratories

The Diagnostic Science Laboratories’ primary aim is to develop and promote appropriate solutions to the conservation problems of objects, art, architecture, archaeological sites, and monuments. Staff members carry out scientific research to ensure the protection of our collections through the application of recent scientific knowledge in accordance with international practices.

Scientists provide essential information to conservators about deterioration causes and principal factors influencing the damage mechanisms, which in turn helps to guide the conservator to choose a compatible treatment option. They also conduct investigations to determine the composition of materials, manufacturing techniques, authentication and provenance assessments that can contribute to the scholarly interpretation of art and artefacts from the past.

The state-of-the-art setup housed at the Diagnostic Science Laboratories consists of several technologies which include scanning electron microscopy, X-ray imaging, diffraction and micro-fluorescence analytical systems, infrared technology, scientific photographic techniques as well as non-invasive portable systems. In line with providing solutions to the questions posed to them, the Diagnostic Science Laboratories also have an expanded national and international arm of laboratories and consultants for those techniques not available inhouse, thus optimising their analytical application power. Supporting historical research is also at the core of DSL’s role.

From provenance work to authentication and dating, science can be used to unravel key details related to objects and their historical lineage, including modes of manufacture, artistic changes over time and much more.

Stemming from their national responsibility and expertise, the Diagnostic Science Laboratories are also involved in consultancy, education, lecturing, and academic research supervision.
The Diagnostic Science Laboratories’ setup is also available for private clients, both cultural heritage-related and in industry.

 dsl@heritagemalta.org