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 those opting to purchase the full-day learning experience 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. For those who cannot join us in person, a virtual ticket is available for the morning only.

Learning outcomes

You will:

1. Understand how analytical scientific techniques can enhance our understanding of the nature of traditional building materials and can explain how they decay over time.
2. Discover how petrographic analysis is used to determine the chemical composition and physical structure of natural building stone and how this helps identify new sources of material for repair.
3. Learn about the range of analytical techniques used to monitor moisture ingress in traditional buildings and how thermal efficiency of a building may be measured.
4. Understand the important role of dendrochronology and other types of timber analysis help determine the age, source and likely longevity of timberwork in Scotland’s traditional buildings.

Speakers

• Gordon Urquhart, Postgraduate Course Manager, Historic Environment Scotland
• Dr Aurélie Turmel, Heritage Science Manager, Historic Environment Scotland
• Dr Callum Graham, Conservation Scientist, Historic Environment Scotland
• Dr Maureen Young, Conservation Scientist, Historic Environment Scotland
• Dr Lisa Brown, Archaeological Science Manager, Historic Environment Scotland