Since 2005, CIRAM supports supports its partners in the scientific analysis of materials through three areas of expertise: the datingdating, characterization and scientific imaging.
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Visit CIRAM specialize in the analysis and dating of materials.
Carbon-14 dating, an essential analysis for dating your objects
The radiocarbon dating (C14) is the reference method for dating organic matter. It makes it possible to estimate the age of an organism by measuring the residual concentration of carbon 14.
CIRAM supports uses this expertise to authenticate works of art, date archaeological artifactsand quantify the biobased content of industrial products (biofuels, cosmetics, paints, CSR, etc.).
Thermoluminescence dating for ceramics, porcelain and earthenware
For heated minerals, such as terracotta or porcelain, it is possible to determine the age of the last firing using thermoluminescence thermoluminescence analysis (TL/OSL).
The older the object, the higher the light energy emitted during analysis, offering reliable dating for works of art and archaeological artifacts.
Read moreCIRAM supports uses advanced methods to analyze the composition and origin of materials.
Thanks to technologies such as electron microscopy (SEM-EDX), ICP-MS and XRD visit micro-analysis to identify the structure and chemical composition of a material.
Stone, glass or pigments, it can be applied to a wide variety of archaeological objects and objets d'art. It also has industrialapplications, notably for quality control.
The metallography analyzes metals such as bronze, gold and silver to determine their composition, degree of corrosion and origin of alterations.
Combined with techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) or thermoluminescence test, it can be used to estimate an object's period of manufacture.
CIRAM also offers analysis methods, including the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)dating, Raman spectrometry or else theAES (atomic emission spectroscopy).
These techniques provide invaluable information for dating and characterizing characterization of ancient materials. They are often used in conjunction with other analyses to enhance the scientific expertise of the object.
CIRAM mobilizes two complementary disciplines for the study of wooden objects and charcoal from archaeological contexts: the xylology (study of wood) andanthracology (study of charcoal). These approaches enable us to :
Isotope analysis (carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen, strontium) is a cutting-edge method for reconstructing biological, geographical or industrial trajectories.
In archaeology, it is used to study the dietsdating, displacements or geographical origins ancient populations. In an industrial setting, it allows to detect adulterationscertification verify the authenticity of a product.
CIRAM supports uses a combination of optical techniques(visible light, grazing light, infrared reflectography, UV fluorescence) and radiographic(X-rays, CT scans) to offer an in-depth, non-invasive reading of works of art, particularly paintings, but also complex archaeological objects such as ancient mortars.
These examinations reveal elements invisible to the naked eye : preparatory drawings, repentirs, repaints, alterations, internal structures or hidden signatures. They provide a detailed understanding of the creative process, the object'smaterial history and its state of preservation. state of preservation.
The X-ray, achievable in situ thanks to portable equipment, allows for rapid and targeted analysis, while the CT scanning in the laboratory offers a full 3D modeling for complex objects, such as Cremation urns.
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Thanks to a network of subsidiaries, joint ventures and strategic partnerships in Europe, the USA and Asia, we support our customers in carrying out advanced analyses and rigorous sampling, wherever they are located.
Our teams of scientists highly qualified follow strict analytical protocols, compliant with international standards the most demanding, in order to guarantee results of impeccable precision and reliability.
Whether you're a professional art marketa researcher in archaeology or a player in the the bio-based industry, CIRAM supports brings you recognized expertise and analytical solutions tailored to your needs.
Request a studyCIRAM works in a variety of fields, including art, archaeology and the biobased products industry. We work with public institutions, private companies and individuals.
Our experts will help you choose the analytical techniques best suited to your specific needs. For any other questions or requests for specific studies, please contact our teams.
Time depends on the technique used and the type of object. A detailed quote will be provided with an estimated timeframe.
Click on "Contact our teams" for a quick response to your needs.
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