PIXE in the study of archaeological and historical glass
Thomas Calligaro
Abstract The particle induced x‐ray emission (PIXE) method, especially when carried out with an external beam, is a remarkable tool for the scientific investigation of objects cultural heritage. We present here two case studies addressing important issues archaeological and historical glass: deformulation ancient glass recipes, determination provenance raw materials understanding weathering processes endangering these precious artifacts. This contribution illustrates place PIXE technique among other analytical methods based on radiations in study this specific material. In first example, used to determine natural glass, obsidian, which forms support paintings Spanish master Murillo (17th century.) display Louvre museum. comparison chemical fingerprints obtained by obsidian composition database established instrumental neutron activation (INAA) XRF shows that rectangular panels were imported from Mexico. These investigations also permit highlight complementarities techniques. second applied 12th‐century stained window Saint‐Denis basilica (Paris) various medieval glasses (soda potash types) employed panel. addition, combining p‐PIXE He‐PIXE, PIGE (proton‐induced gamma‐ray emission), p‐RBS (Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry) He‐RBS, alteration markers surface, useful conservation science, are evidenced. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.
X-Ray Spectrometry