Heritage science applications of ambient mass spectrometry

Abstract

An overview of the applications of the ambient mass spectrometry techniques Desorption Electrospray Ionisation (DESI) and Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) in the field of cultural heritage is given. These techniques were first used for heritage science studies in the 2010s, but did not become common in the field until recent years. Investigation of the composition of objects, the analysis of surface residues and material degradation are discussed alongside the use of data obtained by DESI and DART for planning better conservation interventions. Heritage science studies using other ambient mass spectrometry techniques such as Paper Spray mass spectrometry (PS)-MS, Surface Acoustic Wave Nebulisation (SAWN)-MS, and Laser Ablation Electrospray Ionisation (LAESI)-MS are also briefly described. The analysis of a variety of artefacts and materials including paper, wood, oil paintings and pottery are included, and potential future developments in the field are explored, highlighting the current exciting expansion of the application of ambient mass spectrometry techniques to heritage science questions.