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Infrared spectroscopy is used to examine and characterize organic
and inorganic materials. The technique combines a microscope and
infrared spectrometer. Data is produced in the form of a spectrum,
with many bands that represent chemical bonding between two particular
atoms or a group of atoms in a molecule. The spectrum is subsequently
compared to a set of known reference materials for identification
and interpretation.
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As an analytic technique, FTIR has several advantages. It requires only a minute sample. It takes only minutes to conduct. And it will work with most solids or liquids. FTIR is one of the first steps in material analysis. It is used frequently in analysis of samples from the Getty Museum's collections, as well as GCI science and field projects. It is also used to complement other techniques, such as gas chromatography, to achieve a better understanding of material composition.
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Applications:
Many materials traditionally used in fine art objects and architecture
are identified with this technique. Current projects using FTIR
include an analysis of modern paints (acrylic emulsions) and how
cleaning affects them, as well as an examination of coatings on
historic photographs.
In addition, FTIR is used for:
- analysis of various organic materials, such as binders, coatings
and adhesives, both natural and synthetic;
- characterization of inorganic minerals and pigments;
- identification of organic pigments, colorants, and dyes;
- analysis of composition and stratigraphy of paint cross-sections.
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Further reading:
Derrick, M.R., D.C. Stulik, and J.M. Landry. Infrared Spectroscopy
in Conservation Science. Los Angeles: The Getty Conservation
Institute, 1999.
Humecki, H.J. Practical Guide to Infrared Microspectroscopy.
Marcel Dekker, Inc., 1995.
Derrick, M.R., D.C. Stulik, J.M. Landry, and M.R. Bolton. "Infrared
Microspectrocopic Identification of Binding Media in Paint Cross-Sections:
Application to Works of Art," Paper presented at Pittsburgh
Conference, New York, March 1990.
More information on FTIR Microspectroscopy, prepared by Case
Western Reserve University, can be found here.
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