Mass spectrometry and machine learning find fake Robert Burns’ manuscripts
By 
Katrina Krämer2018-07-30T14:30:00
Chemical fingerprinting distinguishes famous Scottish poet’s 200-year-old letters from contemporary forgeries
Scientists have used a combination of mass spectrometry and machine learning to authenticate writing by Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns without damaging the 200-year-old manuscripts.
The 18th century romanticist and lyricist composed hundreds of poems and folk songs. After his death in 1796, his works became a part of Scotland’s cultural heritage and Burns an icon. His birthday is still celebrated today each 25 January – Burns Night – with a traditional Scottish dinner and recitation of Burns’ poetry, including Address to a Haggis.