Heritage Science at the Engine Shed

To select the most appropriate intervention in a conservation or repair project, you must understand the nature of the materials used in the construction of a building or site. Conservation scientists at Historic Environment Scotland (HES) use a variety of analytical techniques to understand how these materials decay over time and how certain interventions might affect their integrity and longevity.

The day will begin with an overview of how science is increasingly used – both in the lab and on site – to analyse the nature and condition of traditional materials in Scotland and beyond. Then we will look at different types of analytical processes used by the Engine Shed’s Heritage Science team to determine the source, composition, structure and current condition of stonework and timber, as well as to monitor moisture ingress in our traditional buildings and determine thermal efficiency.

A networking lunch will provide you with the opportunity to continue discussions and explore the Engine Shed.

In the afternoon, there will be a set of practical demonstrations of the HES Heritage Science team’s analytical equipment in the Engine Shed.

You will: