This week, scientists from Belgrade visited the Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics (FLNP): Milica Marić Stojanović (National Museum of Serbia) and Velibor Dj Andrić (Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences). Their professional interests include research using non-destructive analysis methods on cultural heritage objects: icons, paintings, jewelry and tableware.

Milica Marić Stojanović.

"We were very pleased to meet the multinational FLNP team. Archaeometry, as an interdisciplinary field of science, is inspiring for both natural scientists and cultural heritage workers. This is a great opportunity to exchange experience and knowledge on study of cultural heritage objects, technology and materials"

The Group Head of the Nuclear-Physical Materials Science and Ion-Implantation Nanotechnology Sector Ilia Chepurchenko conducted a tour of the EG-5 accelerator, where they are jointly studying Serbian samples using RBS and PIXE methods to determine their composition without damaging them.

Next, the colleagues visited IBR-2 research reactor. FLNP Scientific Secretary Aleksandr Nezvanov spoke about the history and operation of the IBR-2, while Junior Researcher Bulat Bakirov discussed neutron tomography for studying the internal structure of artifacts by demonstrating the capabilities of the NRT instrument.

Serbian colleagues showed genuine interest during their visit to the FLNP Sector for Interdisciplinary Research of Cultural Heritage Objects.

Andrey Dmitriev, Head of the Sector.

"This cannot be called a coincidence, as the scholars from both countries share similar research interests. In the Middle Ages, there were close ties between South Slavic and Old Russian master painters. The former played an active role in the development of Old Russian monumental painting. Today, scientific contacts between visiting researchers from Serbia and the sector's staff are actively developing. The first joint experiment on fragments of wall paintings from Serbia was successfully completed, and new comprehensive studies to answer pressing historical questions have been discussed and planned"