Heritage Malta's Diagnostic Science Laboratories (DSL) has signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste in Italy. This unprecedented agreement marks the first official collaboration between the two entities, furthering Heritage Malta's commitment to advancing technology for the preservation and research of its extensive collection.

Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste is a multidisciplinary research centre of excellence, open to the international research community, specialising in generating high quality synchrotron and free-electron laser light and applying it in materials and life sciences.

While DSL has previously utilized synchrotron facilities, this MoU establishes a dedicated framework for closer future collaboration. The Elettra Synchrotron is a world-class particle accelerator that generates synchrotron light, which allows the analysis of materials at an unprecedented level of precision, from UV and infrared to X-rays. This technology enables the detection of materials in trace quantities, providing insights that are beyond the capabilities of standard laboratory equipment.

Through this partnership, Heritage Malta reinforces its mission to study and deepen the historic and scientific knowledge on its various collections. Matthew Grima, the DSL's manager, explained that, "The DSL is now in a better able position to not only provide critical data for the conservation of artefacts but also offer added-value information on their origins, manufacturing methods, and historical significance. These scientific insights elevate the importance and understanding of these objects, contributing directly to Malta's cultural and touristic appeal."

Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste Senior Scientist Franco Zanini commented that, "The relations of Malta with Italy have always been excellent in all fields, with a special interest in cultural activities and scientific and technological cooperation. Trieste always had a special role, with a Maltese consulate dating back to 1763 and still active. Therefore, a specific collaboration between Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste and Heritage Malta was a natural consequence of this long relationship, and the Training School for Applications of Synchrotron Light in Cultural Heritage Studies is only the first of many initiatives in program between the two institutions."

Noel Zammit, Heritage Malta Chief Executive Officer, remarked that this MoU is a milestone in the application of cutting-edge science for the conservation of cultural heritage, enhancing the Agency's ability to preserve Malta's artefacts for generations to come.

The MoU also encompasses mutual capacity building, with both institutions benefiting from shared expertise and technical support in cultural heritage research. This collaboration was sparked by DSL's participation in an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) National Technical Cooperation project, which facilitated the training of DSL staff members in synchrotron radiation at Elettra. This recent activity cemented the relationship and laid the groundwork for future projects.