Both XRF (hand held, portable and mobile) as well as vibrational spectroscopy techniques such as NIR, FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy are non-invasive and non-destructive techniques ideally suited for the study of art and museum (cultural heritage) objects
Whereas XRF provides the elemental (qualitative and possibly quantitative) information, IR and Raman provide information on functional groups and compounds in the material.
XRF
With XRF, the conservator investigates for example, the layering of materials such as paint layers. The elemental fingerprint helps with identification of the pigment and glazes and can help with the authentication of objects.
When the conservator combines the elemental XRF information with the Raman spectral fingerprint, it is readily possible to identify the exact pigment as well as the oxidation state of the elements. This knowledge enables the curator to select appropriate methods for the conservation and restoration of the analyzed object.
Infrared
With portable IR, it is possible to analyze and identify gemstones as well as identify stains and materials on cloths.
- Gemstone from Diego Sali
- Sweden monarchy clothes