Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Research Articles

ACTIVATED CARBON DERIVED FROM GROUNDNUT SHELL AND RICE HUSK FOR THE ADSORPTION OF HEAVY METALS IN TANNERY WASTEWATER

The Effluents from tanneries are considered to be one of the major environmental pollutants from industries. The challenge from leather processing arises from the nature and quality of the chemicals used along with the amount of wastes generated and discharged. Heavy metals present in tannery wastewater pose a significant risk to both the environment and public health. This study investigates the use of activated Carbon produced from Composite of Groundnut shell and Rice husk (GR-AC) to remove heavy metals (Pb, Cr and Cd) from tannery wastewater. The raw material was carbonized at temperature of 400 ͦ C for 1 hour to obtain bio char. The obtained char was impregnated with NaOH and H 3PO 4 for 24 hours thereafter, filtered and washed several times until a neutral pH was obtained. A measured amount of the adsorbent, 0.5g was introduced into 250mL vessel with 50mL wastewater, it was stirred at 250rpm for 60minutes and later subjected to centrifugation and the concentrations of residual Lead, Chromium and Cadmium was determined using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The produced adsorbent was characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), elemental composition analysis. The effects of adsorbent dosage and contact time on the adsorption process were studied in a batch system. From the research conducted, it shows that pH, adsorbent dosage, contact time, initial Concentration and temperature plays a vital role in the uptake of heavy metals. Optimal conditions for effective adsorption were determined at a pH range of 7 to 8, an adsorbent dosage of 0.5g, contact time of 60 min and a temperature of 40 0C. The maximum adsorption capacities of Pb, Cr and Cd adsorbed onto GR-AC were found to be 98.2, 82.4 and 75.2 mg/g respectively. Therefore, the GR-AC can be effectively utilized as agricultural waste to remove heavy metals in tannery effluents.

Investigation of the X‐ray fluorescence technique in the characterization of Ni coatings applied to historical heritage studies

AbstractHistorical heritage pieces allow a better comprehension of the characteristics of different civilizations over time. The characterization of such pieces is of paramount importance for their preservation. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (EDXRF) is recommended for this application, mostly because it is non‐destructive and the equipment is portable. However, one of its limitations is the difficulty in separating the signal from the substrate and the coating of multilayered samples, as it does not provide depth resolution. This project investigates the application of EDXRF in the characterization of metallic coatings, in the context of historical heritage. The elemental concentration of electrodeposited Ni coatings onto carbon steel substrates was obtained from EDXRF analyses. The relationship between the layer thickness and the variation of the Kα/Kβ intensity ratio of nickel peaks was exploited and the thicknesses of the coatings were estimated through EDXRF measurements. For comparison, particle‐induced x‐ray emission spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy of the cross‐section were employed, providing a depth profile of the coatings. The estimated thicknesses from EDXRF analysis were comparable to those observed in the microscopy images for thinner films (up to 8 μm). On the other hand, for thicker films, the thicknesses were underestimated, due to the technique's depth limit and matrix effects, as secondary absorption. Despite these limitations, EDXRF remains valuable for evaluating cultural heritage pieces, often providing sufficient information to address authenticity concerns or to guide restoration processes. A case study was also performed to apply the methodology discussed on historical metallic pieces.

Compositional characterization of paint sample by neutron and charge particle activation analysis: validation by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry

The elemental composition of the paint was determined by non-destructive nuclear analytical techniques, namely neutron activation analysis (NAA), charge particle activation analysis (CPAA), and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). NAA was chosen as the primary method of analysis as there is no matrix effect, requirement of a small quantity of a sample, detection capability down to ppb level, and self-validation. Ba, Ca, and Cr are detected as the major constituents, whereas Co, Hf, Mn, Y, Sr, Sb, W, Zn and Zr were detected at trace levels in the paint sample by NAA. CPAA was also utilized for the analysis, and elements like Ca, Cr, Fe, Sr, Ti and Zr were detected in the sample. The validation of the analytical results obtained in NAA and CPAA was carried out by the EDXRF technique, in which, including Si, most of the transition and high Z elements like Ca, Cr, Fe, Sr, Zr and Ba were detected. Analysis of variance was carried out to establish the statistical indistinguishability and acceptability of the analytical results obtained by these three methods. This study showcases the capability of NAA and CPAA for routine compositional analysis of paint sample without the requirement of a matrix matched standard.

Characterizations and solubility profile of novel senary SiO2–CaO–Na2O–P2O5–CaF2–SrO glass structure modified with Nb2O5

The solubility/degradability of bioactive glasses play crucial role in bone tissue engineering applications owing to the release of ions from their structure, which exert therapeutic effects on tissues. The present study evaluates the findings of a detailed investigation on the main features and solubility behaviors of newly formulated Nb incorporated glasses (Nb-BGs). New glass formulation in SiO2–CaO–Na2O–P2O5–CaF2–SrO–xNb2O5 (x: 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mol. %) system was successfully synthesized by melt-quenching technique. Glass composition was verified with Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence spectrometer analysis and its amorphous nature, functional groups of the matrix and morphological features were identified via X-Ray diffraction analyses, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscope analysis, respectively. Network connectivity (NC) of the Nb-BGs was assessed with respect to the role of Nb2O5 in the glass matrix as network former, modifier, or both. In order to evaluate the in vitro solubility of Nb-BGs, released concentrations of particular ions from the glass compositions were determined at certain time points and comprehensively discussed with several mathematical models such as zero-order, first-order, second-order, Higuchi, and Korsmeyer-Peppas for the first time. Results showed that the incorporation of Nb2O5 (up to 1.5 mol. %) increased the density, oxygen density as well as NC values of newly formulated glasses. Si, Na and Ca ions which play a main role in well-defined Hench's mechanism followed mostly second-order release kinetics for all glasses in the mathematical models studied. When the Nb content increase (to 1.5 mol. %) in glass composition, the release mechanism of Si ion according to Korsmeyer-Peppas model shifts from the diffusion mechanism to an erosion-dominant release mechanism.

Determination of Sulphur Dioxide (SO<sub>2</sub>) Air Emission of Refined Petroleum Products by Emission Factor Approach for Air Pollution Control

Air pollution control is a safe method for achieving a sustainable environment and can be accomplished by adequately monitoring pollutants that pose significant environmental risks. The combustion of sulfur-containing petroleum products has been a major concern for several decades. Therefore, this study was aimed at determining sulfur levels in refined petroleum products such as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Dual-Purpose Kerosene (DPK). It also investigated the air quality implications of sulfur levels and estimated the contribution of the refinery’s products to sulfur dioxide air emission. Fuel samples were collected from the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) in Nigeria and analyzed using Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF). Sulfur levels were determined at 425 nm wavelength, and sulfur dioxide air emission were estimated for seven consecutive years from 2010 to 2016 using the emission factor approach. The densities of PMS, AGO, and DPK were 0.77 kg/l, 0.832 kg/l, and 0.82 kg/l respectively. The levels of sulfur in PMS, AGO, and DPK were 2.007 x 10<sup>-4</sup> %, 6.970 x 10<sup>-5</sup> wt%, and 4.233 x 10<sup>-5</sup> wt% respectively from UV-Vis technique and 0.016, 0.087 and 0.029% respectively for EDXRF technique were found below the sulfur limit of 0.015 %, 0.005 % and 0.015 % for PMS, AGO and DPK respectively specified by Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) specifications of 0.1, 0.5 and 0.15wt% for PMS, AGO and DPK respectively. The annual sulfur dioxide emissions were obtained for seven consecutive years from 2010 to 2016. The results from UV-VIS were observed to have the highest SO<sub>2</sub> emission of 0.1718 tons for PMS in 2011, 0.2593 tons in 2010 for AGO, and 0.0974 tons for DPK in 2010, while the lowest emission was observed to be 0.029 tons for PMS in 2015, 0.0362 tons in 2015 for AGO and 0.0181 tons for DPK also in 2015. The results from EDXRF technique were observed to have the highest SO<sub>2</sub> emission of 13.6939 tons for PMS in 2012, 323.6881 tons for AGO in 2010, and 66.7147 tons for DPK also in 2010, while the lowest emissions for PMS, AGO and DPK were all observed in 2015 to be 2.3122, 45.1872, and 12.4182 tons respectively. The study concluded that the refinery complied with the set requirements.

Graphene oxidation and reduction in medium vacuum by an UV lamp at 365 nm wavelength

ABSTRACT The time-dependent graphene oxide (GO) reduction in medium vacuum under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation at 365 nm has been investigated. We found that GO exposed to UV at room temperature and at a vacuum of about 10−1 mbar shows a notable oxidation for irradiation times up to about 60 min followed by a successive reduction up to 210 min. Characterization measurements have been performed mainly using the Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopies. ATR-FTIR spectra, acquired in the (400–4000) cm−1 wavenumber range, have indicated an initial decrement of the IR transmission (oxidation process) with the exposure time up to about 60 min and a successive increase of the IR transmission (reduction process) for greater irradiation times up to 210 min. The IR transmission bands are attributed to the oxygen functional groups contained in GO which increase for low UV exposure times and gradually disappear during the UV-induced reduction process. Raman spectra confirm this interpretation showing a decrease of the AD/AG ratio value, with respect to the GO virgin value, for low UV exposure times and an increase for greater times. The GO oxidation and reduction processes, due to the UV GO treatment in medium vacuum conditions, have been also verified by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence and surface wettability measurements.

Influence of trace elements changes in the cerebellum on the rat’s behavior in elevated plus maze in the early period of mild blast-induced traumatic brain injury

The aim of the current study was to determine whether there are changes in brain trace elements of rats with blast-induced trauma and if these changes affect behavior in the elevated plus maze. Materials and methods. The study was carried out on 126 sexually mature male Wistar and were divided into 3 groups: Experimental – exposed to a shock wave 26.4 ± 3.6 kPa (n = 42); Sham (n = 42), the animals of which were subjected to inhalation anesthesia with halothane and fixation in a horizontal position; and Intact (n = 42). Behavior was study in elevated plus maze. The duration of presence in the open and closed arms, the number of stands, the duration of grooming was recorded in all groups of rats for 3 minutes. After, the animals were euthanized with halothane, followed by removal of the brain. The cerebellum was completely separated for spectral analysis using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis (EDRFA) on the analyzer EXPERT 3 XL. Results. Results showed significant changes of cognitive activity in experimental group which are indicate functional disorders of the cerebellum in the form of maladaptation in space with subsequent inhibition of motor centers. Cu/Fe ratio was decreased in the 14th and 21st days and increased in the 28th. Cu/Zn ratio was decreased on the 14th day. Zn/Fe ratio was higher on the 14th and 28th days. The existence of correlations between changes in trace elements and behavioral disorders in experimental rats was established. Conclusions. In the early period of blast-induced traumatic brain injury, cerebellar dysfunction in the form of spatial maladaptation with subsequent depression of motor centers was observed in the experimental rats Correlation analysis showed the presence of different strengths and directions of relationships between the ratios of Cu/Fe, Cu/Zn and Zn/Fe in the cerebellum and behavioral indicators in the elevated plus maze (duration of stay in open and closed arms, grooming and vertical motor activity) of experimental rats.

Characterization of 17th century archaeological metallic statuettes using combined neutron tomography and neutron diffraction

A combination of neutron computed tomography and neutron diffraction analysis has been studied to demonstrate the efficacy of employing neutron-based methodologies to investigate brass metallic statuettes, thereby shedding light on their structural and phase characteristics, all the while obviating the need to dissect the sample physically. In order to corroborate the findings obtained from the neutron-based techniques, supplementary methodologies such as Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence were employed to extract elemental information and validate the results. These preliminary findings draw attention to the potential of neutron imaging to unveil intricate information regarding the techniques and components employed by artisans of antiquity in the production of Indian brass artifacts. We were also able to discern concealed structural attributes within metallic statuettes, as well as ascertain the precise phase composition of the brass alloy, thus further enriching our understanding of manufacturing practices of brass statuettes in the 17th-century era.

Risk Assessment and Sources Apportionment of Toxic Metals in Two Commonly Consumed Fishes from a Subtropical Estuarine Wetland System.

The widespread occurrence of heavy metals in aquatic environments, resulting in their bioaccumulation within aquatic organisms like fish, presents potential hazards to human health. This study investigates the concentrations of five toxic heavy metals (Pb, Hg, Zn, Cu, and Cr) and their potential health implications in two economically important fish species (Otolithoides pama and Labeo bata) from a subtropical estuarine wetland system (Feni estuary, Bangladesh). Muscle and gill samples from 36 individual fish were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The results revealed that the average quantities of heavy metals in both fishes' muscle followed the declining order of Zn (109.41-119.93 mg/kg) > Cu (45.52-65.43 mg/kg) > Hg (1.25-1.39 mg/kg) > Pb (0.68-1.12 mg/kg) > Cr (0.31-5.82 mg/kg). Furthermore, Zn was found to be present in the highest concentration within the gills of both species. While the levels of Cu, Zn, and Cr in the fish muscle were deemed acceptable for human consumption, the concentrations of Pb and Hg exceeded the permissible limits (>0.5 mg/kg) for human consumption. Different risk indices, including estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic or target risk (TR), revealed mixed and varying degrees of potential threat to human health. According to the EDI values, individuals consuming these fish may face health risks as the levels of Zn, Cu, and Cr in the muscle are either very close to or exceed the maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI) threshold. Nevertheless, the THQ and HI values suggested that both species remained suitable for human consumption, as indicated by THQ (<1) and HI (<1) values. Carcinogenic risk values for Pb, Cr, and Zn all remained within permissible limits, with TR values falling below the range of (10-6 to 10-4), except for Zn, which exceeded it (>10-4). The correlation matrix and multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) findings revealed that Pb and Cr primarily stemmed from natural geological backgrounds, whereas Zn, Cu, and Hg were attributed to human-induced sources such as agricultural chemicals, silver nanoparticles, antimicrobial substances, and metallic plating. Given the significance of fish as a crucial and nutritious element of a balanced diet, it is essential to maintain consistent monitoring and regulation of the levels and origins of heavy metals found within it.

The Technical Examination of Nineteenth-Century Artists' Pigments from John Opie’s Paintbox

ABSTRACT St Agnes Museum, Cornwall, currently holds in its collections a paint box with a metal plaque reading ‘John Opie 1806’, containing pigments and other artists’ materials. John Opie produced hundreds of oil paintings until his untimely death in 1807 and was a well-known and successful painter of portraits and historical scenes. However, his work has been little studied, in comparison to his contemporaries such as Joshua Reynolds. This paper discusses the identification of the pigments in the paint box using infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Seven pigments have been identified as ultramarine, lead white, fustic and carmine lakes, carbon black (likely ivory), hematite, and burnt sienna, consistent with the bottle labels where present. The identification has been further confirmed using historical literature, which has shown that the pigments are likely to be contemporary with the stated date of 1806. This information adds to the body of knowledge about the artist specifically, and the artists pigments generally available at the time.

ZnS@ fluorenone derived multifunctional quantum dots for simultaneous recognition of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and copper ions (Cu2+) in aqueous blood and urine samples

An efficient synthesis of water-stable and fluorescent ZnS quantum dots has been executed beginning with its organic predecessor possessing fluorenone for sensing bovine serum albumin (BSA) among other proteins. Moreover, the organic predecessor of quantum dots has also been utilized for sensing of F- ions with binding constant of 1.8 × 104 M−1. Various spectroscopic techniques such as high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), UV-visible (UV-vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric (TGA), Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), circular dichroism (CD) and Fluorescence (FL) spectroscopy have been utilized for the characterization of the developed quantum dots. The emission properties of quantum dots made them useful for the sensing of BSA and Cu2+ accompanied with secondary sensing of urea. The LODs value for BSA and Cu2+ were calculated as 213 and 211 nM, respectively. Demonstrating remarkable efficacy, these quantum dots have been successfully employed for the discernment of BSA in human blood and urine samples, achieving an outstanding recovery rate of up to 99.8%.

XRF calibration with low-cost samples and implementation for quantification of inorganic elements in lipsticks

In this paper, the preparation of low-cost samples, for the calibration of an energy–dispersive X-ray fluorescence system is presented. The entire procedure is proposed as an undergraduate or postgraduate student laboratory activity, which aims to familiarize students with the procedure of calibration of a spectroscopy-based analytical method through the XRF technique. Furthermore, the use of XRF for the determination of elemental concentrations in samples related to students’ interests, was attempted.

Influence of fluoride characteristics on tooth surface protection in an erosive condition: A multifaceted characterization approach.

To evaluate the effect of fluoride consistency and composition to protect enamel and dentin against the dental erosion. Bovine enamel and dentin specimens were treated with artificial saliva, neutral fluoride gel (NFG), acidulated phosphate fluoride gel (AFG), neutral fluoride foam (NFF), and acidulated phosphate fluoride foam. The samples were subjected to cycling. Micro energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, surface roughness (Ra), contact angle (CA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed. Composition, CA and Ra data were analyzed by ANOVA and multiple comparison test (p < 0.05). The dentin protected had a significantly higher mineral content than in the control. Eroded unprotected enamel had higher Ra values than normal surfaces. Fluoride treatments increased the Ra in dentin samples. AFG increased the CA in enamel. Fluoride foams increased CA in dentin with reduced mineral loss. SEM analysis found a deposited layer on enamel treated with AFG and remnants of deposits on dentin treated with NFG and NFF. Regardless of the form of application, fluoride provided protection against erosion, however with different levels. Applying the adequate fluoride form is relevant since the formulations have different effects on both enamel and dentin.

Maximization of the blue-white contrast of ancient porcelain decorations from Jingdezhen imperial kiln by Co-spinel formation

By analyzing the chromaticity values of the ancient blue-and-white porcelain combined with the imitated experiment, the color information is quantified and ‘color dispersion’ mechanism is clarified. Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), the advanced focused ion beam transmission electron microscopy (FIB-TEM) technique, etc, were used to study the characteristics and the ‘color dispersion’ mechanism of the blue-and-white porcelain in Jingdezhen imperial kiln. The ‘color dispersion’ of the blue-and-white porcelain is mainly caused by Co-element structure stability, which is verified by the archaeological experiment results. Blue-and-white decoration lines diffusion length (named as ‘color dispersion’) are long (i.e. fuzzy) which has few or no spinel crystals in the body-glaze interaction layer of the blue-and-white porcelain. However, the blue and white porcelain with the clear lines has a large number of spinel crystals. The experimental results enrich the literature on the history of ceramic manufacturing techniques in Jingdezhen.

Environmentally friendly binders from calcium carbide residue and silica fume and feasibility for soft clay stabilization

This investigation elucidates the development of an innovative, sustainable binder derived from calcium carbide residue and silica fume, aimed at enhancing soft clay stabilization with minimal environmental impact. Various mixtures were examined, focusing on the CaO to SiO2 molar ratio (Ca/Si), which varied from 1.85 to 0.65. Comprehensive analyses of the raw materials and pastes, including chemical composition, phase evolution, and microstructure, were conducted using techniques like Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. Results indicate a significant impact of raw material fractions on the compressive strength and cementitious properties. The mixture with a Ca/Si of 1.55 demonstrated the highest long-term strength, attributed to increased C–S–H content. A mixture of 30 wt% calcium carbide residue and silica fume was found to improve the unconfined compressive strength of soft Bangkok clay by 84% compared to 10 wt% ordinary Portland cement, demonstrating its efficacy and potential for widespread application in green construction initiatives. This research not only promotes the recycling of industrial by-products, reducing environmental impact, but also represents a significant advancement in sustainable construction materials.

Fabrication and characterization of new Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2-CPTS-HBAP (FST-CH) nanoparticles for photocatalytic degradation and adsorption removal of rhodamine B dye in the aquatic environment

In this study, Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2-CPTS-HBAP (FST-CH) nanoparticle was prepared for the simultaneous adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of aromatic chemical pollutants (Rhodamine B dye) in aqueous solution. FST-CH nanoparticle was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) Fluorescence Spectrometer and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of rhodamine B dye (RhB) was evaluated with a Kerman UV 8/18 vertical roller photoreactor. About 56% of RhB in aqueous medium was adsorbed by FST-CH nanoparticles with only 45 min of stirring in the dark, and about 77.01% was degraded or converted to other structures under the photoreactor for 120 min. The photocatalytic degradation of RhB (apparent rate constant: 0.0026 mg dm−3 min−1) occurred by a pseudo-second order reaction. In addition, the recovery of the prepared magnetic FST-CH nanoparticle by an external magnetic field, exhibiting good magnetic response and reusability, shows that the obtained magnetic FST-CH nanoparticle is stable and maintains high degradation ratio and catalyst recovery even after four cycles. Thus, the prepared FST-CH nanoparticle can be highly recommended for its use in potential applications of water decontamination.

Investigation of trace element concentrations in some traditionally used medicinal plants in Kerala, India

Abstract The Ayurvedic drugs are widely used in Kerala, India, for primary health care and comprise medicinal plant parts. In the present study, trace element concentrations of 16 traditionally used medicinal plants were determined by the energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence technique. The iron (Fe) shows the highest concentration of the order of 7482 ± 101 mg kg−1, while the allowed limit by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)/WHO is 20 mg kg−1. Nonessential element lead is detected in all analyzed samples, but its amount is less than the limit set by FAO/WHO 1984. The trace element profile obtained is the fingerprint identity of each plant used in drug formulations. Such baseline data act as the standardization tool for manufacturing compound medicines.

Analysis the Metal Composition of Fish Samples Collected From Karacaören II Dam Lake

The objective of this study was to analyze the metal content in the organs of Oncorhynchus mykiss, commonly known as rainbow trout, at 12 different locations within the cages located in Karacaören II Dam Lake. The metal contents in fish samples were analyzed using a PANalytical Epsilon5 energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometer. We will analyze the findings by displaying the fluctuating metal concentrations in various internal organs over the seasons.

Possibilities of various arrangements of X-ray fluorescence analysis in the study of paintings

Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis (EDXRF) is a very useful method of elemental analysis in the study of works of art and archaeological finds, allowing the simultaneous non-destructive identification of a number of elements. A certain problem, if samples are not to be extracted from the investigated artifact, is its small depth range. However, this is not a serious drawback when it comes to the analysis of thin layers, such as plating or painting.In our laboratory, XRF was gradually developed and the equipment improved, with one of the main goals being the study of archaeological finds and works of art for the purposes of learning about the cultural heritage and restoration works.The presented paper aims to compare the possibilities of different macro- and micro-XRF instrumental arrangements in the study of paintings, from fast orientational measurement with a compact hand-held device through 2D scanning with a collimated beam to 3D analysis with collimated X-ray optics. Attention is paid to both the advantages and limitations of individual arrangements. A small painting by A. Piepenhagen, a typical representative of 19th century romantic landscape painting, was chosen as the object on which the possibilities of individual XRF variants are demonstrated.

X-ray fluorescence analysis in the study of paintings – an overview

Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis (EDXRF) is an excellent method in investigations of cultural heritage treasures, including easel and wall paintings and illuminations in ancient manuscripts. As one of the few methods applicable for this purpose, it is non-destructive and non-invasive. It is often combined with other methods such as optical microscopy, visible light photography, UV fluorescence photography, infrared reflectography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray radiography, Raman spectrometry and others. The complex layered structure and mixtures of pigments, especially on easel paintings, represent a challenging task from the point of view of analysis. However, without taking samples it is only possible to analyse the thin surface layer of the investigated object with a thickness of tens to a few hundreds of micrometres. Nevertheless, this is not too much a problem when analysing paintings and even more so in the analysis of illuminations in manuscripts. The paper has an overview character and aims to summarise the possibilities, advantages and problems of XRF in this area and to demonstrate them on selected examples of published works, which in some cases are devoted to the works of leading painters from various historical periods (Giotto di Bondone, Antonello da Messina, Raffaelo Sanzio, Antonio Allegri da Corregio, Anthonis van Dyck, Rembrandt van Rijn, Giorgio Marini, Pablo Picasso and others). This review includes also a brief mention of selected research carried out in our laboratory.