Listening to Objects

Picture a special device that listens to the sounds objects make when they crack.

This device is used in acoustic emission monitoring, or AE for short. It's typically utilized to inspect airplanes and bridges for potential issues, but now, scientists at Getty are using it to prevent damage in cultural heritage objects.

AE can detect tiny cracks in materials like wood by capturing ultrasound waves and turning them into electrical signals we can see. This real-time data allows us to monitor how objects change over time, identify variations in temperature and humidity that may lead to damage, and even uncover unexpected visitors like termites.

Check out this illustrated video to see AE in action!