Non-destructive Micro Analysis of Cultural Heritage Materials

This book provides the scientific and technical background materials of non-destructive methods of microscopic analysis that are suitable for analysing works of art, museum pieces and archeaological artefacts. Written by experts in the field, this multi-author volume contains a number of case studies, illustrating the value of these methods. The book is suited to natural scientists and analysts looking to increase their knowledge of the various methods that are currently available for non-destructive analysis. It is also the perfect resource for museum curators, archaeologists and art-historians seeking to identify one or more suitable methods of analysis that could solve material-related problems.

Chapter 1. Introduction and overview.
Chapter 2. Ultraviolet, infrared and x-ray imaging.
Chapter 3. Electron microscopy and its role in cultural heritage.
Chapter 4. X-ray based methods of analysis (K. Janssens).
Chapter 5. Ion beam microanalysis.
Chapter 6. X-Ray photoelectron and Auger electron spectroscopy.
Chapter 7. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.
Chapter 8. Infrared, Raman microscopy and Fibre-Optic Raman Spectroscopy (FORS).
Chapter 9. Secondary ion mass spectrometry. Application to archaeology and art.
Chapter 10. The non-destructive investigation of copper alloy patinas.
Chapter 11. Precious metals artifacts.
Chapter 12. Diagnostic methodology for the examination of Byzantine frescoes and icons. Non destructive investigation and pigment identification.
Chapter 13. The Provenance of Medieval Silver Coins: Analysis with EDXRF, SEM/EDX and PIXE.
Chapter 14. Pigment identification in illuminated manuscripts.
Chapter 15. Provenance analysis of glass artefacts.
Chapter 16. Corrosion of Historic Glass and Enamels.
Chapter 17. A study of ancient manuscripts exposed to iron-gall ink corrosion.