Martin Schell

Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, Heinrich Hertz Institute

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Martin Schell is a leading figure in the field of terahertz (THz) imaging and non-destructive testing, with a particular focus on art conservation and materials science. His work centers on developing advanced THz tomography systems capable of analyzing arbitrarily shaped samples—a significant departure from traditional flat-sample methods. Schell’s major contribution lies in adapting robotic-based THz time-of-flight tomography for cultural heritage preservation, as demonstrated in his investigation of a wooden putto. By revealing hidden layer structures and even insect tunneling without physical contact, his technique enables restorers to perform "as little as necessary, but as much as necessary" interventions. His most-cited paper (36 citations) established the foundational system for this approach, while his 2020 study (13 citations) showcased its real-world application in art restoration. This work has positioned Schell at the intersection of engineering and heritage science, offering a powerful tool for non-invasive diagnostics. For students and researchers, his research exemplifies how cutting-edge photonics can solve practical challenges in preserving our cultural legacy.