Applications of TOF neutron diffraction in archaeometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kockelmann, W. [Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, ISIS Facility, Chilton (United Kingdom); Siano, S.; Bartoli, L. [Istituto di Fisica Applicata - CNR, Sesto Fiorentino (Italy); Visser, D. [Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, ISIS Facility, Chilton (United Kingdom); Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), Den Haag (Netherlands); Hallebeek, P. [Netherlands Institute for Cultural Heritage (ICN), Amsterdam (Netherlands); Traum, R. [Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien, Muenzkabinett, Vienna (Austria); Linke, R.; Schreiner, M. [Akademie der Bildenden Kuenste, Institut fuer Wissenschaften und Technologien in der Kunst, Vienna (Austria); Kirfel, A. [Universitaet Bonn, Mineralogisch-Petrologisches Institut, Bonn (Germany)

2006-05-15

Neutron radiation meets the demand for a versatile diagnostic probe for collecting information from the interior of large, undisturbed museum objects or archaeological findings. Neutrons penetrate through coatings and corrosion layers deep into centimetre-thick materials, a property that makes them ideal for non-destructive examination of objects for which sampling is impractical or unacceptable. A particular attraction of neutron techniques for archaeologists and conservation scientists is the prospect of locating hidden materials and structures inside objects. Time-of-flight (TOF) neutron diffraction allows for the examination of mineral and metal phase contents, crystal structures, grain orientations, and microstructures as well as micro- and macro strains. A promising application is texture analysis which may provide clues to the deformation history of the material, and hence to specific working processes. Here we report on instructive examples of TOF neutron diffraction, including phase analyses of medieval Dutch tin-lead spoons, texture analyses of bronze specimens as well as of 16th-century silver coins. (orig.)

Radiation applications in art and archaeometry X-ray fluorescence applications to archaeometry. Possibility of obtaining non-destructive quantitative analyses

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Milazzo, Mario

2004-01-01

The possibility of obtaining quantitative XRF analysis in archaeometric applications is considered in the following cases: - Examinations of metallic objects with irregular surface: coins, for instance. - Metallic objects with a natural or artificial patina on the surface. - Glass or ceramic samples for which the problems for quantitative analysis rise from the non-detectability of matrix low Z elements. The fundamental parameter method for quantitative XRF analysis is based on a numerical procedure involving he relative values of XRF lines intensity. As a consequence it can be applied also to the experimental XRF spectra obtained for metallic objects if the correction for the irregular shape consists only in introducing a constant factor which does not affect the XRF intensity relative value. This is in fact possible in non-very-restrictive conditions for the experimental set up. The finenesses of coins with a superficial patina can be evaluated by resorting to the measurements of Rayleigh to Compton scattering intensity ratio at an incident energy higher than the one of characteristic X-ray. For glasses and ceramics the measurements of the Compton scattered intensity of the exciting radiation and the use of a proper scaling law make possible to evaluate the matrix absorption coefficients for all characteristic X-ray line energies

PANDORA, a new facility for interdisciplinary in-plasma physics

Science.gov (United States)

Mascali, D.; Musumarra, A.; Leone, F.; Romano, F. P.; Galatà, A.; Gammino, S.; Massimi, C.

2017-07-01

PANDORA, Plasmas for Astrophysics, Nuclear Decays Observation and Radiation for Archaeometry, is planned as a new facility based on a state-of-the-art plasma trap confining energetic plasma for performing interdisciplinary research in the fields of Nuclear Astrophysics, Astrophysics, Plasma Physics and Applications in Material Science and Archaeometry: the plasmas become the environment for measuring, for the first time, nuclear decay rates in stellar-like condition (such as 7Be decay and beta-decay involved in s-process nucleosynthesis), especially as a function of the ionization state of the plasma ions. These studies will give important contributions for addressing several astrophysical issues in both stellar and primordial nucleosynthesis environment ( e.g., determination of solar neutrino flux and 7Li Cosmological Problem), moreover the confined energetic plasma will be a unique light source for high-performance stellar spectroscopy measurements in the visible, UV and X-ray domains, offering advancements in observational astronomy. As to magnetic fields, the experimental validation of theoretical first- and second-order Landé factors will drive the layout of next-generation polarimetric units for the high-resolution spectrograph of the future giant telescopes. In PANDORA new plasma heating methods will be explored, that will push forward the ion beam output, in terms of extracted intensity and charge states. More, advanced and optimized injection methods of ions in an ECR plasma will be experimented, with the aim to optimize its capture efficiency. This will be applied to the ECR-based Charge Breeding technique, that will improve the performances of the SPES ISOL-facility at Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro-INFN. Finally, PANDORA will be suitable for energy conversion, making the plasma a source of high-intensity electromagnetic radiation, for applications in material science and archaeometry.

PANDORA, a new facility for interdisciplinary in-plasma physics

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mascali, D.; Gammino, S. [INFN-Laboratori Nazionali del Sud, Catania (Italy); Musumarra, A. [INFN-Laboratori Nazionali del Sud, Catania (Italy); University of Catania, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Catania (Italy); Leone, F. [INFN-Laboratori Nazionali del Sud, Catania (Italy); University of Catania, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Catania (Italy); INAF-OACT, Catania (Italy); Romano, F.P. [INFN-Laboratori Nazionali del Sud, Catania (Italy); CNR-IBAM, Catania (Italy); Galata, A. [INFN-Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro, Legnaro (Italy); Massimi, C. [University of Bologna, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Bologna (Italy); INFN-Bologna, Bologna (Italy)

2017-07-15

PANDORA, Plasmas for Astrophysics, Nuclear Decays Observation and Radiation for Archaeometry, is planned as a new facility based on a state-of-the-art plasma trap confining energetic plasma for performing interdisciplinary research in the fields of Nuclear Astrophysics, Astrophysics, Plasma Physics and Applications in Material Science and Archaeometry: the plasmas become the environment for measuring, for the first time, nuclear decay rates in stellar-like condition (such as {sup 7}Be decay and beta-decay involved in s-process nucleosynthesis), especially as a function of the ionization state of the plasma ions. These studies will give important contributions for addressing several astrophysical issues in both stellar and primordial nucleosynthesis environment (e.g., determination of solar neutrino flux and {sup 7}Li Cosmological Problem), moreover the confined energetic plasma will be a unique light source for high-performance stellar spectroscopy measurements in the visible, UV and X-ray domains, offering advancements in observational astronomy. As to magnetic fields, the experimental validation of theoretical first- and second-order Lande factors will drive the layout of next-generation polarimetric units for the high-resolution spectrograph of the future giant telescopes. In PANDORA new plasma heating methods will be explored, that will push forward the ion beam output, in terms of extracted intensity and charge states. More, advanced and optimized injection methods of ions in an ECR plasma will be experimented, with the aim to optimize its capture efficiency. This will be applied to the ECR-based Charge Breeding technique, that will improve the performances of the SPES ISOL-facility at Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro-INFN. Finally, PANDORA will be suitable for energy conversion, making the plasma a source of high-intensity electromagnetic radiation, for applications in material science and archaeometry. (orig.)

Proceedings of the 8. Australian conference on nuclear techniques of analysis

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

1994-12-31

These proceedings contain the abstracts or extended abstracts of 72 out of 77 presentations. The topics focus on instrumentation, nuclear techniques and their applications for material science, surfaces, archaeometry, art, geological, environmental and biomedical studies. An outline of the Australian facilities available for research purposes is also provided. Separate abstracts were prepared for the individual papers in this volume.

Proceedings of the 8. Australian conference on nuclear techniques of analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

1993-01-01

These proceedings contain the abstracts or extended abstracts of 72 out of 77 presentations. The topics focus on instrumentation, nuclear techniques and their applications for material science, surfaces, archaeometry, art, geological, environmental and biomedical studies. An outline of the Australian facilities available for research purposes is also provided. Separate abstracts were prepared for the individual papers in this volume

Proceedings of the 8. Australian conference on nuclear techniques of analysis

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

1993-12-31

These proceedings contain the abstracts or extended abstracts of 72 out of 77 presentations. The topics focus on instrumentation, nuclear techniques and their applications for material science, surfaces, archaeometry, art, geological, environmental and biomedical studies. An outline of the Australian facilities available for research purposes is also provided. Separate abstracts were prepared for the individual papers in this volume.

Max-Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics. Annual report 1993

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Repnow, R.; Kiko, J.

1994-01-01

Research in the fields of nuclear physics and particle physics focusses on experimental investigations into the structure of hadrons, hadron interactions, and the relation between the hadronic properties and nuclearphysics phenomena. The experimental and theoretical cosmophysics studies investigate solar neutrinos, cosmic radiation, the interstellar and extragalactic media, C 60 , the atmosphere of the planetary system, extraterrestric solid matter, and archaeometry. (DG) [de

Thermoluminescence studies having applications to geology and archaeometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Levy, P.N.

1978-01-01

Mineral thermoluminescence (TL) studies, undertaken as geophysics investigations, appear to have archaeometric applications. Measurements were made with equipment which records TL emission spectra at closely spaced temperatures. Carbonate rock containing lead-zinc deposits exhibit radiation induced TL against distance-from-ore patterns useful for mineral exploration and locating worked-out deposits. The feldspar albite has second-order TL kinetics, which can introduce dating errors. Heat induced changes in the albite TL emission spectra could be used as a paleotemperature indicator. Quartz remembers previous exposure to radiation, a property influencing TL intensity against dose curves but useful for uranium exploration

Scientific methods of research in archaeology, prehistory, and ancient history

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gentner, W [Max-Planck-Institut fuer Kernphysik, Heidelberg (Germany, F.R.)

1977-12-01

This contribution deals with some fields of archaeometry, i.e. the application of physical methods in archaeology: Age determination in glasses and potsherds with the aid of fission tracks and thermoluminescence, determination of the origin of coins and pottery by chemical analyses with the aid of neutron activation ('fingerprinting'), obtaining information on metal winning in ancient history with the aid of the C-14-method.

Evidence of the Earliest Salt Production Found in China

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

无

2005-01-01

@@ Being critical in the development of the human civilization, the ancient salt-making has been an important research issue for both historians and archaeologists. Since salt dissolves in water, it is difficult to tell whether the salt in archaeological samples was caused by human production of salt or underground water. So how to judge the existence of salt production has been a world-wide problem in archaeology and archaeometry.

Max-Planck-Institute for Nuclear Physics. Annual report 1988

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Klapdor, H.V.; Jessberger, E.K.

1989-01-01

This annual report contains short notes and abstracts about the work performed at the named institute together with a list of publications and talks. The work concerns technical developments of accelerators and ion sources, experimental and theoretical studies on nuclear structure and reactions, high-energy physics, studies on meteorites and lunar rocks, comets, interplanetary and interstellar dust, interstellar dynamics, nuclear geology, and archaeometry. See hints under the relevant topics. (HSI)

Nuclear Physics Group progress report

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Coote, G.E.

1985-02-01

This report summarises the work of the Nuclear Physics Group of the Institute of Nuclear Sciences during the period January-December 1983. Commissioning of the EN-tandem electrostatic accelerator continued, with the first proton beam produced in June. Many improvements were made to the vacuum pumping and control systems. Applications of the nuclear microprobe on the 3MV accelerator continued at a good pace, with applications in archaeometry, dental research, studies of glass and metallurgy

Portable X-ray diffractometer equipped with XRF for archaeometry

Science.gov (United States)

Uda, M.; Ishizaki, A.; Satoh, R.; Okada, K.; Nakajima, Y.; Yamashita, D.; Ohashi, K.; Sakuraba, Y.; Shimono, A.; Kojima, D.

2005-09-01

A portable X-ray diffractometer equipped with an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer was improved so as to get a diffraction pattern and a fluorescence spectrum simultaneously in air from one and the same small area on a specimen. Here, diffraction experiments were performed in two modes, i.e. an angle rotation mode and an energy dispersive mode. In the latter a diffraction pattern and a fluorescence spectrum were simultaneously recorded in a short time, 100 s or less, on one display. The diffractometer was tested in the field to confirm its performance. Targets chosen for this purpose were a bronze mirror from the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220), and a stupa and its pedestal which are part of the painted statue of "Tamonten holding a stupa" from the Heian Period (794-1192), enshrined in the Engyouji temple founded in 996. The bronze mirror was identified as a product of the Han Dynasty from its chemical composition and the existence of the δ phase in the Cu-Sn alloy. The stupa and its pedestal were decorated with gold powder and gold leaf, respectively. From the XRF data of the pedestal, the underlying layer of gold leaf seems to have been painted with emerald green.

Portable X-ray diffractometer equipped with XRF for archaeometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uda, M.; Ishizaki, A.; Satoh, R.; Okada, K.; Nakajima, Y.; Yamashita, D.; Ohashi, K.; Sakuraba, Y.; Shimono, A.; Kojima, D.

2005-01-01

A portable X-ray diffractometer equipped with an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer was improved so as to get a diffraction pattern and a fluorescence spectrum simultaneously in air from one and the same small area on a specimen. Here, diffraction experiments were performed in two modes, i.e. an angle rotation mode and an energy dispersive mode. In the latter a diffraction pattern and a fluorescence spectrum were simultaneously recorded in a short time, 100 s or less, on one display. The diffractometer was tested in the field to confirm its performance. Targets chosen for this purpose were a bronze mirror from the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220), and a stupa and its pedestal which are part of the painted statue of 'Tamonten holding a stupa' from the Heian Period (794-1192), enshrined in the Engyouji temple founded in 996. The bronze mirror was identified as a product of the Han Dynasty from its chemical composition and the existence of the δ phase in the Cu-Sn alloy. The stupa and its pedestal were decorated with gold powder and gold leaf, respectively. From the XRF data of the pedestal, the underlying layer of gold leaf seems to have been painted with emerald green

Applications of non-cryogenic portable EDXRF systems in archaeometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cesareo, R.; Castellano, A.; Dabrowski, A.

1996-01-01

In this paper the most relevant developments in the realisation of portable energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) equipments are discussed. In particular, the latest advances in non-cryogenic (Peltier cooled) X-ray detectors and miniaturised X-ray generators are shown. The energy resolution of the new detection systems is adequate to resolve the characteristic X-ray emission lines of contiguous elements. This small size and low power make the system ideal for portable instrumentation and have stimulated the development of small- and low-power X-ray generators which can be used for the excitation of fluorescence radiation in a broad energy range (5-40 keV). Finally, the use of EDXRF related to archaeometric research (pigments in ancient paintings and major elements in the metal alloys) is emphasised. Recent results obtained with new HgI 2 and silicon PIN detector systems combined with miniaturised highly stable air-cooled X-ray generators are described. (orig.)

An early historic assemblage offshore of Godawaya, Sri Lanka: Evidence for early regional seafaring in South Asia.

Digital Repository Service at National Institute of Oceanography (India)

Muthucumarana, R; Gaur, A.S.; Chandraratne, W.M.; Manders, M.; Rao, B.R; Bhushan, R; Khedekar, V.D.; Dayananda, A.M.A.

of Ceylon, Colombo. Parthesius R, Millar K, Devendra S, Green J (2003) Sri Lanka Maritime Archaeological Unit Report on the Avondster Project 2001 – 2002. The Netherlands Ray HP (2003) The Archaeology of Seafaring in South Asia. Cambridge University... and Mesopotamia, Part I: New WDS analysis. Archaeometry, 48(4):581-603. Somadeva R (2006) Urban origins in Southern Sri Lanka. Published by African and comparative Archaeology, Department of Archaeology and ancient History Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden...

EDXRF Analysis of pigments of the Joaquin Sorolla Artistic Paintings

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ferrero, Jose L.; Roldan Clodoaldo, David; Mario Alvarez, Juanes

1999-01-01

The study of the pictorial work of Joaquin Sorolla has not been carried out from the point of view of the scientific analysis. Analytical techniques give us objective information about materials and process used in artistic works of art. In this sense, the Archaeometry Unit of the Institute of Material Science of the Valencia University (ICMUV), has carried out the first analysis of pigments of the paintings of Sorolla by Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence(EDXRF)

Archaeometry: nuclear and conventional techniques applied to the archaeological research

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Esparza L, R.; Cardenas G, E.

2005-01-01

The book that now is presented is formed by twelve articles that approach from different perspective topics as the archaeological prospecting, the analysis of the pre hispanic and colonial ceramic, the obsidian and the mural painting, besides dating and questions about the data ordaining. Following the chronological order in which the exploration techniques and laboratory studies are required, there are presented in the first place the texts about the systematic and detailed study of the archaeological sites, later we pass to relative topics to the application of diverse nuclear techniques as PIXE, RBS, XRD, NAA, SEM, Moessbauer spectroscopy and other conventional techniques. The multidisciplinary is an aspect that highlights in this work, that which owes to the great specialization of the work that is presented even in the archaeological studies including in the open ground of the topography, mapping, excavation and, of course, in the laboratory tests. Most of the articles are the result of several years of investigation and it has been consigned in the responsibility of each article. The texts here gathered emphasize the technical aspects of each investigation, the modern compute systems applied to the prospecting and the archaeological mapping, the chemical and physical analysis of organic materials, of metal artifacts, of diverse rocks used in the pre hispanic epoch, of mural and ceramic paintings, characteristics that justly underline the potential of the collective works. (Author)

Radiocarbon dates from the Oxford AMS system: Archaeometry datelist 17

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hedges, R.E.M.; Housley, R.A.; Ramsey, C.B.; Van Klinken, G.J.

1993-01-01

This seventeenth list of accelerator dates consists mainly of material dated since the beginning of 1991, but includes a number of measurements made earlier in the dating programme. In accordance with international radiocarbon convention all dates are expressed in radiocarbon years before AD 1950 (years BP) using the half-life of 5568 years, this convention having been reaffirmed at the Trondheim Radiocarbon Conference 1985. Errors are quoted as one standard deviation and are based on an assessment of all the contributions to the error in the laboratory isotope ratio measurement. Natural fractionation of carbon isotopes is accounted for by estimating δ 13 C values except for more recent dates where δ 13 C have been measured relative to PDB (only to within ± 0.5-1.0%). All combining procedures and significance tests are based on Ward and Wilson (1978). Comments composed by the Laboratory on the basis of information supplied by submitters are given without attribution. (author)

Radiation in archaeometry applied to Taquari Valley, (Lajeado, RS-Brazil)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Watanabe, Shigueo; Gennari, Roseli F.; Alpendre, Fernanda M.; Machado, Neli G.

2009-01-01

In the present work, soil and archaeological ceramic samples from one archaeological site located in Taquari Valley, (Lajeado, RS), were investigated. Ceramics pottery fragments were dated using thermoluminescence method and analyzed by mass spectrometry. The samples were grounded, sieved, and then divided in two: a) the fraction with lower grain size diameters was used in the chemical analysis, b). the portion with intermediate size grain diameter was chemically leached, submitted to different doses and then finally the thermoluminescence was measured. The ages obtained varied from 385 up to 926 years BP. The chemical analysis of soil and ceramics was made using ICP-MS (Plasma Mass Spectrometry) analytical technique. The ICP-MS determination was performed in the solubilized samples. For solubilization of each sample it was used a microwave-assisted digestion technique. Mn ,Fe, Al, Ca, K, Ti, Mg, Na, Cr, V, Ni, Zn, Pb, Li, Cu, La, Ce, Th, U, Sr and Ba have been determined in the studied samples. To guarantee the analytical performance a series of certified reference materials were used (IAEA-Soil 7, and GSJ- JG1a, JA-3, JB2 and JB-3). The ICP-MS data treatment using hierarchical cluster analysis with the squared Euclidean distances was used to calculate dissimilarities between samples. In the resulting dendrogram, the distinct groups of samples were evidenced. (author)

Nuclear Physics Group progress report

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Coote, G.E.

1985-07-01

This report summarises the work of the Nuclear Physics Group of the Institute of Nuclear Sciences during the period January-December 1984. Commissioning of the EN-tandem accelerator was completed. The first applications included the production of 13 N from a water target and the measurement of hydrogen depth profiles with a 19 F beam. Further equipment was built for tandem accelerator mass spectrometry but the full facility will not be ready until 1985. The nuclear microprobe on the 3 MV accelerator was used for many studies in archaeometry, metallurgy, biology and materials analysis

X-ray fluorescence analysis and optical emission spectrometry of an roman mirror from Tomis, Romania

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Belc, M.; Bogoi, M.; Ionescu, D.; Guita, D.; Caiteanu, S.; Caiteanu, D.

2000-01-01

The miscellaneous population of Roman Empire, their diverse cultural tradition, their ability to assimilate the roman civilization spirits, had determined a permanent reassessment superimposed upon the roman contribution. Analysis was undertaken using optical emission spectrometry and non-destructive X-ray fluorescence. X-ray fluorescence analysis is a well-established method and is often used in archaeometry and other work dealing with valuable objects pertaining to the history of art and civilization. Roman mirror analysed has been found not to be made of speculum (a high tin bronze). (authors)

Activities on archaeology, art and cultural heritage conservation at the Applied Nuclear Physics Laboratory (LFNA), State University of Londrina (UEL)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Appoloni, Carlos R.; Parreira, Paulo S.; Lopes, Fabio

2007-01-01

The Laboratory of Applied Nuclear Physics from the State University of Londrina (LFNA/UEL) introduced Archaeometry and related issues pioneeringly among its main research lines in 1994. The current work aims at presenting an overview of the evolution of such activities and the development of human resources up to the present time. The activities related to Archaeology, Art and Cultural Heritage Conservation at the LFNA can be divided into five levels, as follows. (1) Study and implementation of experimental methodologies. (2) Related Basic Research - Physics issues involved in archaeometric applications have led to the need to conduct interesting specific basic research. (3) Works with specific materials - Among the several analysis conducted, the following should be mentioned: ceramics from the archaeological site Tupi Guarani Fazenda Sta. Dalmacia, PR; two archaeological sites in the Amazon Forest; objects from the MAE/USP collection; wall paintings in Imaculada Conceicao Church, SP; coins and other objects from the MHN/RJ; obsidians from Ecuador; etc. (4) Development of Human Resources. In this item there are two components: tutoring of scientific initiation students, Master's and Doctorate in atomic-nuclear methodologies applied to Archaeometry and a course of non-destructive nuclear techniques for the characterization of archaeological and art materials aimed at archaeologists and conservators, given since 1997. (5) Scientific collaborations - the construction of a common language between physicists and archeologists, conservators and other professionals involved in this area is an endeavor of mutual continuous learning and necessary conditions for the success of the projects. (author)

Activities on archaeology, art and cultural heritage conservation at the Applied Nuclear Physics Laboratory (LFNA), State University of Londrina (UEL)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Appoloni, Carlos R.; Parreira, Paulo S.; Lopes, Fabio [Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), PR (Brazil). Dept. de Fisica. Lab. de Fisica Nuclear Aplicada]. E-mails: appoloni@uel.br; parreira@uel.br; bonn@uel.br

2007-07-01

The Laboratory of Applied Nuclear Physics from the State University of Londrina (LFNA/UEL) introduced Archaeometry and related issues pioneeringly among its main research lines in 1994. The current work aims at presenting an overview of the evolution of such activities and the development of human resources up to the present time. The activities related to Archaeology, Art and Cultural Heritage Conservation at the LFNA can be divided into five levels, as follows. (1) Study and implementation of experimental methodologies. (2) Related Basic Research - Physics issues involved in archaeometric applications have led to the need to conduct interesting specific basic research. (3) Works with specific materials - Among the several analysis conducted, the following should be mentioned: ceramics from the archaeological site Tupi Guarani Fazenda Sta. Dalmacia, PR; two archaeological sites in the Amazon Forest; objects from the MAE/USP collection; wall paintings in Imaculada Conceicao Church, SP; coins and other objects from the MHN/RJ; obsidians from Ecuador; etc. (4) Development of Human Resources. In this item there are two components: tutoring of scientific initiation students, Master's and Doctorate in atomic-nuclear methodologies applied to Archaeometry and a course of non-destructive nuclear techniques for the characterization of archaeological and art materials aimed at archaeologists and conservators, given since 1997. (5) Scientific collaborations - the construction of a common language between physicists and archeologists, conservators and other professionals involved in this area is an endeavor of mutual continuous learning and necessary conditions for the success of the projects. (author)

Thermoluminescence dating in the South-West Pacific region

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Prescott, J.R.

1982-01-01

The archaeometry laboratory of the University of Adelaide has undertaken a variety of dating projects for archaeologists in the region. For example, a survey of Pacific Island pottery has shown that themoluminescence dating is likely to be severely limited in usefulness on islands remote from the continental shelf i.e., the andesitic island arcs and oceanic islands. On the mainland of Australia, we have dated prehistoric campsites using ovenstones from fireplaces and have compared C-14 ages with themoluminescent ages. Where there is a close stratigraphic association of the C-14 and TL materials, there is good agreement between the two methods. (author)

Accurate isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Some problems and possibilities

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bievre, P. de

1978-01-01

The review includes reference to 190 papers, mainly published during the last 10 years. It covers the following: important factors in accurate isotope ratio measurements (precision and accuracy of isotope ratio measurements -exemplified by determinations of 235 U/ 238 U and of other elements including 239 Pu/ 240 Pu; isotope fractionation -exemplified by curves for Rb, U); applications (atomic weights); the Oklo natural nuclear reactor (discovered by UF 6 mass spectrometry at Pierrelatte); nuclear and other constants; isotope ratio measurements in nuclear geology and isotope cosmology - accurate age determination; isotope ratio measurements on very small samples - archaeometry; isotope dilution; miscellaneous applications; and future prospects. (U.K.)

Metal location and thickness in a multilayered sheet by measuring Kα/Kβ, Lα/Lβ and Lα/Lγ X-ray ratios

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cesareo, Roberto; Rizzutto, Marcia A.; Brunetti, Antonio; Rao, Donepudi V.

2009-01-01

When a multilayered material is analyzed by means of energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis, then the X-ray ratios of Kα/Kβ, or Lα/Lβ and Lα/Lγ, for an element in the multilayered material, depend on the composition and thickness of the layer in which the element is situated, and on the composition and thickness of the superimposed layer (or layers). Multilayered samples are common in archaeometry, for example, in the case of pigment layers in paintings, or in the case of gilded or silvered alloys. The latter situation is examined in detail in the present paper, with a specific reference to pre-Columbian alloys from various museums in the north of Peru.

Characterization of the Teotihuacan mural painting: application of the external particle beam as non destructive technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Martinez, C.; Manzanilla, L.; Ruvalcaba, J.L.; Ontalba, M.A.

2005-01-01

The characterization of technical indicators contained in the painting mural should follow a minim methodology from their discovery in the archaeological excavations until their analysis in the laboratory, with the purpose of rescuing diagnostic elements that mark the stages of socio cultural development in the towns. With this spirit it was carried out the present study analyzing some fragments of the Teotihuacan mural painting. The analysis consisted on applying some of the analytical techniques with particle beams used for archaeometry like the Proton induced X-ray emission (PIXE) and the particle elastic backscattering (RBS), due to it is treated of complementary techniques, very sensitive, of multielemental character, but mainly because its are non destructive analytical techniques. (Author)

Max-Planck-Institute for Nuclear Physics. Annual report 1986

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Klapdor, H.V.; Jessberger, E.K.

1987-01-01

This annual report contains short descriptions of the research performed at the given institute together with an extensive list of publications. The research in nuclear physics is concerned with developments in accelerators and ion sources, radiation detectors, solid-state studies by nuclear methods, counting circuits, data processing, target preparation, fission, fusion, and nuclear friction, giant resonances, nuclear spectroscopy, nuclear reaction mechanisms, atomic physics and interaction of charged particles with matter, medium and high energy physics. The research in cosmophysics works on meteorites and lunar rocks, the gallium-solar-neutrino experiment (project GALLEX), problems of Halley's comet, interplanetary and interstellar dust, planetary atmospheres, interstellar medium and cosmic rays, molecular collision processes in the gas phase, nuclear geology and geochemistry, and archaeometry. (GG)

Neutron activation analysis in archaeological and solar energy research; Neutronenaktivierungsanalyse in Archaeometrie und Solarenergieforschung

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Stieghorst, Christian

2016-06-23

For 80 years now, neutron activation analysis (NAA) has been providing reliable data of the elemental composition for different materials in various scientific fields. Today, there are still many applications for NAA, and new methods based on neutron activation were developed during the last couple of years. In this work the focus was on the precise elemental analysis of different materials. For the provenance studies of ancient Roman limestone objects the elemental composition of samples and quarries were compared by using geochemical indicators and multivariate statistics of the elemental composition dataset, which was previously produced by using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). The samples of this work originated from different archeological sites and quarries in the French region of Lorraine as well as samples from excavations in the Belgian city of Tongeren. Various objects could successfully assign to one of the Lorraine quarries via principle component analysis (PCA) and support vector machines (SVM).The aim of the co-operation between the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in Freiburg, Germany, and the Institute of Nuclear Chemistry in Mainz, Germany, was to reduce the energy and cost consumption during the production process of multicrystalline solar cells at a constant efficiency level. The test ingots were produced at the ISE and measured with NAA. The colleagues' work on this topic was focused on INAA measurements of the 3d transition metals and a new developed method for phosphorus detection. In this work prompt-gamma neutron activation analysis (PGAA) was used to measure the dopand boron as well as hydrogen. The PGAA facility of the FRM II reactor close to the city of Munich was used for this purposes. For the measurement of boron amounts below the PGAA detection limit in the medium ppb{sub w}-range a new method developed at the FRM II by Lichtinger was tested. A qualitative boron detection was successful.

The archaeometry study of the chemical and mineral composition of pottery from Brazil's Northeast

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Santos, J.O.; Santos, J.O.; Munita, C.S.; Toyota, R.G.; Oliveira, P.M.S.; Vergne, C.; Silva, R.S.

2009-01-01

Chemical and mineralogical analysis was performed on ceramics and clay samples from Barracao archaeological site located in Baixo Sao Francisco River by means of instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) and by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The data set was studied by means of cluster analysis (CA) and discriminant analysis (DA). The results showed that the raw material used in ceramics is not local. By using DSC it was possible to discover that the principal minerals in the samples are quartz, feldspars, mica and kaolinite. (author)

Application of INAA to archaeometry: Provenance determination of ancient Greek and Roman white marble artifacts

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Moens, L.J.; Roos, P.G.; De Paepe, P.A.

1991-01-01

During the past five years a large scale project was set up to develop a method to determine the provenance of ancient sculptures made of white marble. The problem was solved by applying three different methods of analysis to the material: INAA and EAAS for the determination of minor- and trace-elements, mass spectrometry measuring the relative abundance of the stable O- and C-isotopes and finally petrography. It was found that these three methods yield complementary information. The role of INAA is of capital importance since it allows one to determine the concentration of a large number of elements in a single sample. In addition the application of multi-variate statistical analysis was indispensable to extract the useful information from the data set. After the analysis of hundreds of quarry samples and the setting up of a reference data base, the method was applied to the provenance determination of about a hundred Green and Roman sculptures from several museums in Europe and the US

Archaeometry: the science at the service of the art; Arqueometria: la ciencia al servicio del arte

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tenorio, M.D.; Mendez G, B. [ININ, A.P. 18-1027, 11801 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2004-07-01

The modern technology allows unsuspected conjunctions. In this case, that of the physics with the archaeology, in technical as the electronic microscopy that allows us to decipher the enigma of a beautiful pigment of the antiquity: the Mayan blue. (Author)

Radiation in art and archeometry

CERN Document Server

Creagh, D C

2000-01-01

/inca/publications/misc/creaghcov.htmAbout the cover This book contains twenty chapters covering a wide range of research in the fields of scientific conservation of art and archaeometry. The common thread is the use of radiation in these analyses. The term "radiation" is used in the widest possible sense. The book encompasses the use of electromagnetic radiation in its microwave, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, x ray and &ggr; ray forms and the use of particulate forms such as electrons, neutrons and charged particles for which the Planck's Law relation applies. In many cases there is an interplay between the two forms: for example, proton induced x ray emission (PIXE), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). As far as possible the chapters have been arranged in order of ascending particle energy. Thus it commences with the use of microwaves and finishes with the use of &ggr; rays. The authors were chosen on the basis of their expertise as practitioners of their particular field of study. This means ...

XRF newsletter. No. 1

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2000-12-01

This periodical XRF Newsletter is to inform the XRF laboratories in IAEA Member States on recent developments in the field of XRF spectrometry and to exchange views on fundamental and applied aspects of sampling, sample preparation, instrumentation, quantitation, quality control, etc. It presents the XRF activities and the main XRF results obtained at the IAEA's model XRF Laboratory in Seibersdorf and in XRF laboratories in the Member States. This Newsletter will include input from the Member States and will help the XRF laboratories to improve their analytical performance, extend the applicability range of XRF techniques and initiate co-operation. It will be distributed to current and potential end-users of the analytical services of XRF laboratories and will further promote the utilisation of this technique in environmental pollution monitoring, mineral exploration, archaeometry and industry. The first issue of the Newsletter provides the XRF laboratories with a description of the facilities, the activities and selected results obtained at the IAEA XRF Laboratory in Seibersdorf, Austria

Evaluation of relative comparator and k0-NAA for characterization of Aboriginal Australian ochre

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Popelka-Filcoff, R.S.; Lenehan, C.E.; Quinton, J.S.; Bennett, J.W.; Stopic, A.; Allan Pring; Keryn Walshe

2012-01-01

Ochre is a significant material in Aboriginal Australian cultural expression from ceremonial uses to its application on many types of artifacts. However, ochre is a complex material, with associated surrounding minerals potentially challenging the overall analysis. In recent literature several studies have attempted to characterize ochre by a variety of techniques to understand procurement and trade. However, ochre is difficult to differentiate on major elemental or mineralogical composition and requires a detailed analysis of its geochemical 'fingerprint'. Neutron activation analysis (NAA) provides the high sensitivity (sub-ppm), precision and accuracy in multi-elemental analysis required for ochre. The elements of interest for ochre generally include rare earth elements (REEs) and certain transition metal elements as well as arsenic and antimony. Data from relative comparator NAA (MURR, University of Missouri, USA) is compared with data from k 0 -NAA OPAL (ANSTO, Lucas Heights, Australia). A discussion of the two methods will be examined for their utility in 'fingerprinting' the provenance of ochre. The continuing importance of NAA to archaeometry will also be discussed. (author)

Influence of the distribution of nitrides in the hardness of ancient swords

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Santos, Hellen C.; Added, Nemitala; Fantini, Marcia C.A. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (DFN/IF/USP), SP (Brazil). Inst. de Fisica. Dept. de Fisica Nuclear

2010-07-01

The aim of this work is correlate the depth profile of nitrogen in the blade of ancient swords with their hardness, and specifies the composition of steel alloy. The depth profile of nitrogen will be obtained using the resonances in production of {gamma} rays (4.43 MeV) for the reaction {sup 15}N(p, {alpha}{gamma}){sup 12}C. The samples (a Hindu sword, a Japanese sword and standard samples) will be also characterized using the technique PIXE to identify the concentration of major elements and trace elements of the steel alloy used in the manufacturing of each ancient sword. In order to evaluate other influences, we will perform crystallographic investigations using XRD to identify the crystalline surface phase, as well as radiograph the pieces using X-ray to check how the internal structure of the each sword grip is. The work will be executed in collaboration with the researcher Diogo Emiliano who will supply the swords. This study adds to archaeometry a method to evaluate ductility and hardness among swords from different culture and ages. (author)

Influence of the distribution of nitrides in the hardness of ancient swords

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Santos, Hellen C.; Added, Nemitala; Fantini, Marcia C.A.

2010-01-01

The aim of this work is correlate the depth profile of nitrogen in the blade of ancient swords with their hardness, and specifies the composition of steel alloy. The depth profile of nitrogen will be obtained using the resonances in production of γ rays (4.43 MeV) for the reaction 15 N(p, αγ) 12 C. The samples (a Hindu sword, a Japanese sword and standard samples) will be also characterized using the technique PIXE to identify the concentration of major elements and trace elements of the steel alloy used in the manufacturing of each ancient sword. In order to evaluate other influences, we will perform crystallographic investigations using XRD to identify the crystalline surface phase, as well as radiograph the pieces using X-ray to check how the internal structure of the each sword grip is. The work will be executed in collaboration with the researcher Diogo Emiliano who will supply the swords. This study adds to archaeometry a method to evaluate ductility and hardness among swords from different culture and ages. (author)

Scientific methods and cultural heritage an introduction to the application of materials science to archaeometry and conservation science

CERN Document Server

Artioli, Gilberto

2010-01-01

Artioli provides an introduction to the methods and rationales of the scientific investigation of cultural heritage materials, with an emphasis placed on the analytical strategies, modes of operation and resulting information rather than on technicalities.

Analyzing Lead Content in Ancient Bronze Coins by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: An Archaeometry Laboratory with Nonscience Majors

Science.gov (United States)

Donais, Mary Kate; Whissel, Greg; Dumas, Ashley; Golden, Kathleen

2009-01-01

A unique, interdisciplinary collaboration between chemistry and classics has led to the development of an experiment for nonscience majors. This instrumental analysis experiment was designed for use in an archaeology course to quantify the amount of lead in ancient bronze coins. The coins were corroded beyond visual identification, so provenance…

Identification of protein binding in pictorial art Cuban

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mendoza, Ariadna; Correa, Maurin; Maqueira, Isis

2011-01-01

In this paper were implemented microanalysis methodologies by histochemical analysis, and infrared spectroscopy to determine the nature of the binder in paintings and Gas Chromatography (GC) coupled to Mass Spectrometry (MS) for identification of protein binders of common use in tempera technique with the aim of having these methods as part of the identification of artistic materials in Cuban cultural heritage carried out by Archaeometry Laboratory of Havana city's Historian Cabinet. The methodologies implemented were evaluated using model samples of traditional painting techniques with variable protein binder: yolk, egg white, casein, nut oil and animal glue; ageing for 5 years. The models samples were correctly identified. It was determined the interference of pigments with the presence of nitrogen by histochemical analysis with Amido Black dye. IR spectroscopy technique allowed to differentiate between oily and mixed (oil plus protein) techniques and tempera with yolk. Oily technique was identified in wall paintings of the New San Francisco church (XIX century) and the Obrapia House (XVII century) and the technique of tempera with animal glue in the polychrome of the XVIII century which represents St. John the Evangelist belonging to the San Juan de Letran church

Some results about the dating of pre hispanic mexican ceramics by the thermoluminescence method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gonzalez M, P.; Mendoza A, D.; Ramirez L, A.; Schaaf, P.

2004-01-01

One of the most frequently recurring questions in Archaeometry concerns the age of the studied objects. The some first dating methods were based in historical narrations, style of buildings manufacture techniques. However, has been observed that as consequence the continuous irradiation from naturally occurring radioisotopes and from cosmic rays some materials, such as archaeological ceramic, accumulate certain quantity of energy. These types of material can, in principle, be dated through the analysis of these accumulate energy. In that case, ceramic dating can be realized by thermoluminescence (TL) dating. In this work, results obtained by our research group about TL dating of ceramic belonging to several archaeological zones like to Edzna (Campeche), Calixtlahuaca and Teotenango (Mexico State) and Hervideros (Durango) are presented. The analysis was realized using the fine grained mode in a Daybreak model 1100 reader TL system. The radioisotopes that contribute in the accumulate annual dose in ceramic samples ( 40 K, 238 U, 232 Th) were determined by means of techniques such as Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and Neutron Activation Analysis (AAN). Our results are agree with results obtained through other methods. (Author) 7 refs., 2 tabs., 5 figs

Characterization of historic lime mortars by neutron scattering and mercury porosimetry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zouridakis, N.; Stefanopoulos, K.L.; Treimer, W.

1999-01-01

Complete text of publication follows. Lime mortars were commonly used in building from ancient Greek times through to the beginning of the nineteenth century [1]. In the past few years, the increased interest in conservation and restoration of historic monuments requires a better knowledge of the structure and composition of lime mortars resulting from the various additives, as well as the preparation technique each time used. Lime mortars from ancient Greek monuments have been dated by using the radiocarbon method [2]. Furthermore, a wide selection of lime mortars from known historic periods and monuments in Greece has been examined by mercury porosimetry. It was found that their structure depends on the utilization of the monument which come from. In specific, lime mortars coming from residences have more or less the same structure, whereas the preparation technique differs for lime mortars coming from tombs and walls. The weathering effects on the porous system of the mortars are studied by neutron scattering. (author) [1] Brown, P.W., and Clifton, J.R., 'Air pollution and conservation', eds. J. Roswall and S. Aleby, 225 (1988), Elsevier, Amsterdam.; [2] N. Zouridakis, J.F. Sliege, A. Person et al., Archaeometry, 60 (1987) 29

Uses of stable isotopes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Axente, Damian

1998-01-01

The most important fields of stable isotope use with examples are presented. These are: 1. Isotope dilution analysis: trace analysis, measurements of volumes and masses; 2. Stable isotopes as tracers: transport phenomena, environmental studies, agricultural research, authentication of products and objects, archaeometry, studies of reaction mechanisms, structure and function determination of complex biological entities, studies of metabolism, breath test for diagnostic; 3. Isotope equilibrium effects: measurement of equilibrium effects, investigation of equilibrium conditions, mechanism of drug action, study of natural processes, water cycle, temperature measurements; 4. Stable isotope for advanced nuclear reactors: uranium nitride with 15 N as nuclear fuel, 157 Gd for reactor control. In spite of some difficulties of stable isotope use, particularly related to the analytical techniques, which are slow and expensive, the number of papers reporting on this subject is steadily growing as well as the number of scientific meetings organized by International Isotope Section and IAEA, Gordon Conferences, and regional meeting in Germany, France, etc. Stable isotope application development on large scale is determined by improving their production technologies as well as those of labeled compound and the analytical techniques. (author)

Evaluation of portable Raman spectroscopy and handheld X-ray fluorescence analysis (hXRF) for the direct analysis of glyptics

Science.gov (United States)

Lauwers, D.; Candeias, A.; Coccato, A.; Mirao, J.; Moens, L.; Vandenabeele, P.

2016-03-01

In archaeometry, the advantages of a combined use of Raman spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy are extensively discussed for applications such as the analysis of paintings, manuscripts, pottery, etc. Here, we demonstrate for the first time the advantage of using both techniques for analysing glyptics. These engraved gemstones or glass materials were originally used as stamps, to identify the owner, for instance on letters, but also on wine vessels. For this research, a set of 64 glyptics (42 Roman glass specimens and 22 modern ones), belonging to the collection of the museum 'Quinta das Cruzes' in Funchal (Madeira, Portugal), was analysed with portable Raman spectroscopy and handheld X-ray fluorescence (hXRF). These techniques were also used to confirm the gemological identification of these precious objects and can give extra information about the glass composition. Raman spectroscopy identifies the molecular composition as well as on the crystalline phases present. On the other hand, hXRF results show that the antique Roman glass samples are characterised with low Pb and Sn levels and that the modern specimens can be discriminated in two groups: lead-based and non-lead-based ones.

The Materials Science and its impact in the Archaeology- Volume 2; La ciencia de Materiales y su impacto en la Arqueologia- Volumen 2

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mendoza A, D. (ed.) [ININ, 52045 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico); Arenas A, J.A. (ed.) [IFUNAM, 04510 Mexico D.F. (Mexico); Rodriguez L, V. [Centro Universitario de Vinculacion, BUAP, 72540 Puebla (Mexico)

2005-07-01

This book seeks to gather the different investigations carried out in the context of the materials science guided to the archaeometry, presented in the 'International Congress of Materials 2004', looking for with it to facilitate the knowledge transfer related with the application of the modern nuclear analytical techniques for the materials characterization as, X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Absorption spectroscopy, PIXE analysis, X-ray fluorescence analysis among other techniques to understand with a bigger depth the characteristics and properties of the materials used in diverse activities in the different stages of the humanity, there have been characterized materials as ceramics, metals, polymers, biomaterials, composite materials, pigments, nano structured materials. Since the articles here presented are of quality and its approach each topic with an original vision, this volume 2 of the book 'The Science of Materials and their Impact in the Archaeology' it will woke up the interest of a wide number of investigators, and that the different presented topics allow to visualize that this methods and techniques here approached its represent powerful tools, to enlarge our knowledge on the different cultures that preceded us. (Author)

The Materials Science and its impact in the Archaeology- Volume 2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mendoza A, D.; Arenas A, J.A.; Rodriguez L, V.

2005-01-01

This book seeks to gather the different investigations carried out in the context of the materials science guided to the archaeometry, presented in the 'International Congress of Materials 2004', looking for with it to facilitate the knowledge transfer related with the application of the modern nuclear analytical techniques for the materials characterization as, X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Absorption spectroscopy, PIXE analysis, X-ray fluorescence analysis among other techniques to understand with a bigger depth the characteristics and properties of the materials used in diverse activities in the different stages of the humanity, there have been characterized materials as ceramics, metals, polymers, biomaterials, composite materials, pigments, nano structured materials. Since the articles here presented are of quality and its approach each topic with an original vision, this volume 2 of the book 'The Science of Materials and their Impact in the Archaeology' it will woke up the interest of a wide number of investigators, and that the different presented topics allow to visualize that this methods and techniques here approached its represent powerful tools, to enlarge our knowledge on the different cultures that preceded us. (Author)

Characterization of Brazilian artists' palette from the XIX century using EDXRF portable system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Calza, Cristiane; Lopes, Ricardo T.; Anjos, Marcelino J.; Pedreira, Andrea

2008-01-01

The palette of some of the most representative Brazilian painters from the XIX century was characterized using EDXRF technique. In this work were analyzed paintings of: Eliseu Visconti, Almeida Junior, Rodolfo Amoedo, Henrique Bernardelli, Rafael Frederico, Modesto Brocos, Augusto Rodrigues Duarte and Pedro Peres - all of them belonging to the National Museum of Fine Arts Collection. EDXRF measurements were carried out with a portable system developed by the Nuclear Instrumentation Laboratory, consisting of an X-ray tube Oxford TF3005 with tungsten (W) anode, operating at 25 kV and 100 μA, and a Si-PIN XR-100CR detector from Amptek. In each color and distinct hue of the paint layer were obtained several spectra, with an acquisition time of 300 s and a beam collimation of 2 mm. The spectra were processed and analyzed using the software QXAS-AXIL from IAEA. Some pigments used by the artists were: zinc white, lead white, ochre, umbra, vermilion, Prussian blue, cobalt blue, cadmium yellow, black iron oxide, manganese violet, etc. These results - together with the Computed Radiography analyses - have been used to create a database about the XIX century collection of the National Museum of Fine Arts, in order to assist restorators, conservators, art students and researchers in the field of archaeometry

Analysis of gold coins on the XIX century by portable XRF

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pereira, Marcelo O.; Felix, Valter de S.; Freitas, Renato P.

2017-01-01

Coins are cultural symbols and reflect important historical events through of the history. Archaeologists, historians and other experts make use of the study of coins (Numismatics) to reconstruct the economy, forms of commerce, customs, religion, political history and art of people and region throughout the globe. The knowledge about the composition of the metal alloy of coins is essential to characterize the fabrication in a historical period and identify possible falsifications. The X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) is a technique of analysis spectroscopic widely used in archaeometry to investigate the elemental composition of pigments, ceramic objects, metal alloy. In this work were XRF analyzes used in a rare coin of the coronation of the emperor D. Pedro I in 1822, Brazilian coins of 1816 and a Portuguese coin of 1823 from the collection of the Museu Histórico Nacional of Rio de Janeiro (MHN). The XRF analyzes were performed using a portable Bruker TRACE IV model system, the spectra operation at a voltage of 40 keV and electric current of 10 uA in acquisition time of 60s. The results indicated the presence of Au, Ag, Cu. The portable X-ray system was shown to be powerful tool in the investigation of metallic alloys with high concentration. (author)

Analysis of gold coins on the XIX century by portable XRF

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pereira, Marcelo O. [Centro Federal de Educação Tecnológica Celso Suckow da Fonseca (CEFET/RJ), Nova Iguaçu, RJ (Brazil); Felix, Valter de S.; Freitas, Renato P. [Instituto Federal do Rio de Janeiro (LISCOMP/IFRJ), Paracambi, RJ (Brazil). Lab. de Instrumentação e Simulação Computacional; Aranha, Paula de J.M.; Heringer, Pedro C.S., E-mail: marcelocefetrj@gmail.com, E-mail: renato.freitas@ifrj.edu.br, E-mail: Pedro.Heringer@museus.gov.br, E-mail: Paula.Aranha@museus.gov.br [Museu Histórico Nacional (IBRAM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil)

2017-07-01

Coins are cultural symbols and reflect important historical events through of the history. Archaeologists, historians and other experts make use of the study of coins (Numismatics) to reconstruct the economy, forms of commerce, customs, religion, political history and art of people and region throughout the globe. The knowledge about the composition of the metal alloy of coins is essential to characterize the fabrication in a historical period and identify possible falsifications. The X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) is a technique of analysis spectroscopic widely used in archaeometry to investigate the elemental composition of pigments, ceramic objects, metal alloy. In this work were XRF analyzes used in a rare coin of the coronation of the emperor D. Pedro I in 1822, Brazilian coins of 1816 and a Portuguese coin of 1823 from the collection of the Museu Histórico Nacional of Rio de Janeiro (MHN). The XRF analyzes were performed using a portable Bruker TRACE IV model system, the spectra operation at a voltage of 40 keV and electric current of 10 uA in acquisition time of 60s. The results indicated the presence of Au, Ag, Cu. The portable X-ray system was shown to be powerful tool in the investigation of metallic alloys with high concentration. (author)

On-line database of voltammetric data of immobilized particles for identifying pigments and minerals in archaeometry, conservation and restoration (ELCHER database)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Doménech-Carbó, Antonio, E-mail: antonio.domenech@uv.es [Departament de Química Analítica, Universitat de València, Dr. Moliner, 50, 46100, Burjassot, València (Spain); Doménech-Carbó, María Teresa, E-mail: tdomenec@crbc.upv.es [Institut de Restauració del Patrimoni, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camí de Vera 14, 46022, València (Spain); Valle-Algarra, Francisco Manuel; Gimeno-Adelantado, José Vicente [Departament de Química Analítica, Universitat de València, Dr. Moliner, 50, 46100, Burjassot, València (Spain); Osete-Cortina, Laura [Institut de Restauració del Patrimoni, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camí de Vera 14, 46022, València (Spain); Bosch-Reig, Francisco [Departament de Química Analítica, Universitat de València, Dr. Moliner, 50, 46100, Burjassot, València (Spain)

2016-07-13

A web-based database of voltammograms is presented for characterizing artists' pigments and corrosion products of ceramic, stone and metal objects by means of the voltammetry of immobilized particles methodology. Description of the website and the database is provided. Voltammograms are, in most cases, accompanied by scanning electron microphotographs, X-ray spectra, infrared spectra acquired in attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy mode (ATR-FTIR) and diffuse reflectance spectra in the UV–Vis-region. For illustrating the usefulness of the database two case studies involving identification of pigments and a case study describing deterioration of an archaeological metallic object are presented. - Highlights: • A web-based database of voltammograms is presented. • The voltammetry of immobilized particles is used. • Artist's pigments and corrosion products of ceramic, stone and metal objects are included. • Examples of application on works of art are discussed.

On-line database of voltammetric data of immobilized particles for identifying pigments and minerals in archaeometry, conservation and restoration (ELCHER database).

Science.gov (United States)

Doménech-Carbó, Antonio; Doménech-Carbó, María Teresa; Valle-Algarra, Francisco Manuel; Gimeno-Adelantado, José Vicente; Osete-Cortina, Laura; Bosch-Reig, Francisco

2016-07-13

A web-based database of voltammograms is presented for characterizing artists' pigments and corrosion products of ceramic, stone and metal objects by means of the voltammetry of immobilized particles methodology. Description of the website and the database is provided. Voltammograms are, in most cases, accompanied by scanning electron microphotographs, X-ray spectra, infrared spectra acquired in attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy mode (ATR-FTIR) and diffuse reflectance spectra in the UV-Vis-region. For illustrating the usefulness of the database two case studies involving identification of pigments and a case study describing deterioration of an archaeological metallic object are presented. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

On-line database of voltammetric data of immobilized particles for identifying pigments and minerals in archaeometry, conservation and restoration (ELCHER database)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Doménech-Carbó, Antonio; Doménech-Carbó, María Teresa; Valle-Algarra, Francisco Manuel; Gimeno-Adelantado, José Vicente; Osete-Cortina, Laura; Bosch-Reig, Francisco

2016-01-01

A web-based database of voltammograms is presented for characterizing artists' pigments and corrosion products of ceramic, stone and metal objects by means of the voltammetry of immobilized particles methodology. Description of the website and the database is provided. Voltammograms are, in most cases, accompanied by scanning electron microphotographs, X-ray spectra, infrared spectra acquired in attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy mode (ATR-FTIR) and diffuse reflectance spectra in the UV–Vis-region. For illustrating the usefulness of the database two case studies involving identification of pigments and a case study describing deterioration of an archaeological metallic object are presented. - Highlights: • A web-based database of voltammograms is presented. • The voltammetry of immobilized particles is used. • Artist's pigments and corrosion products of ceramic, stone and metal objects are included. • Examples of application on works of art are discussed.

Determination of gamma ray attenuation coefficient of archaeological ceramics from Parana State, Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva, Richard M.C.; Appoloni, Carlos R.; Parreira, Paulo S.; Coimbra, Melayne M.; Aragao, Pedro H.A.

1997-01-01

This work demonstrates an alternative methodology for the linear attenuation coefficient determination (μρ) of irregular form samples. This methodology aims the study of indigenous archaeological ceramics from the region of Londrina, North of Parana State, Brazil. These ceramics are from Padre Carlos Weiss Historic Museum, Londrina University and belong to the Kaingaing tradition. Firstly, μρ determination by two mean method was performed by the gamma ray beam attenuation of the immersed ceramics, by using two different means with well-known linear attenuation coefficient. Beyond, the deduction of the equation for the μρ determination by the two-means methods, was also realized. By the other side, μρ theoretical value was determined with the XCOM computer program. This program uses the ceramics chemistry composition and provides an energy versus mass attenuation coefficient table. To verify the two-means method efficiency, five ceramics sample of thickness 1.15 cm and 1.87 cm were prepared with homogeneous clay. Theses ceramics, we used for the μρ determination using the attenuation method, and two-means method. The results and the μρ obtained deviation were compared for these samples, for the two methods. With the obtained results, it was concluded that the two-means method is applicable for the mass attenuation coefficient determination for the archaeometry studies. (author). 6 refs., 1 fig., 5 tabs

Pigments identification in Havana Colonial wall painting by portable XRF System

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nazca, J.; Mendoza, A.; Rodriguez, A.; Rodriguez, T.

2001-01-01

The Havana City historical center is being recuperated in the las years. Numerous are the colonial houses with values typical wall painting as internal decoration that need to be investigated and restored. The pigment identification is essential to have knowledge about pictorial technique and to help and monitor the restoration process. The identification of inorganic pigments in the Havana colonial wall painting has been not almost studied. The opportunity to have a new Portable XRF system in the Archaeometry laboratory of the Conservation and Restoration Gabinet of Havana Historitian Office allows to investigate the wall painting, samples that because of its more of this nature it would be impossible to move to the laboratory for non destructive analysis. The most of the pigment are made of inorganic elements and they can be identified property by XRF technique. All complete archaeometric investigation has to use several technique and to work in a multidisciplinary research team to give a fundamental answer about the past, The suitable techniques selection to employ depends of the art Historitian and archaeologist's questions. The pictorial technique are traditionally investigated using stratigraphical information obtained by Optical Microscopy and organic compound determination by Gas Chromatography. The global analysis of the results from the different employed techniques and the discussion from the restaurateur point of view is presented

Portable x-ray fluorescence spectrometer for Works of art

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mendoza, A.; Griesser, A.

2001-01-01

X-ray fluorescence is an analytical technique of prier importance in archaeometry, for restoration and art history investigation; it is because of non-destructive and multi-elemental character of the analysis simplicity and high speed of operation, ability to produce immediate analytical results for the objects, which can neither be sampled nor removed to the laboratory Recent advances in X-ray tubes, X-ray detectors and electronic provided an opportunity to produce portable high resolution XRF spectrometers characterized by a good reliability and analytical performance; in this paper a prototype portable XRF spectrometer based on a small size, low power X-ray tube and a thermometrically cooled Si-Pin detector is described. The spectrometer provides a possibility for direct and secondary target excitation geometry use of proper secondary target and filter and size adjustment of the primary photon bean by using a set of different beam collimators; the portable XRF spectrometer was successfully applied to study art objects in the Art History Museum in Vienna, including such objects as old master paintings bronze and brass alloys of antique as well as Renaissance objects and silver/copper coins produced at different locations. Quantitative and Quantitative analysis were amedee depending of the curator questions and discussed from the point of view of art History. The importance of the results for restoration and authentification of the art objects is also emphasized

Study of Pictorial technique in a colonial wall painting from El Padre coffee plantation using XRF and complementary technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rodriguez, G.; Mendoza, A.

2001-01-01

This investigation is based on the study of the pictorial technique employed in a wall painting from El Padre coffee plantation situation in Madruga, Havana, and built at beginning of XIX century. The knowledge about pictorical techniques that was used in a painting is a typical research in Archaeometry, because it is so important the art historical information as scientific results to conclude about the real materials and procedures that were used in the past by the artists . The prediction of a wall painting pictorical technique is carrying out trough the knowledge of pigments, mortars layers and binding substance composition. The non destructive inorganic microanalysis of mortars layers and pigments was determined by a portable XRF system, which is very useful because of the most of pigments are of inorganic nature. A pinpoint samples microanalysis of each color from the painting were done by complementary and traditional technique in stratigraphic studies such as: optical microscopy, micro- chemical drop test, Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray attachment (SEM-EDX), gas chromatography and Fourier Transformed Infra Red Spectroscopy (FTIR). The overlapping of layers was obtained by optical microscopy, The mortars composition was investigated by micro-chemical drop test and SEM/EDX and further confirmed by FTIR. The presence of binding substances in colors layers was identified by specific staining test and Gas Chromatography

The INS nuclear microprobe and its application

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Coote, G.E.

1986-01-01

The nuclear microprobe directs a well-focused beam of high-energy protons or deuterons at a solid specimen inside a vacuum chamber. Atomic and nuclear reactions are induced in those elements in a layer about 20 micro m thick, leading to the emission of characteristic x-rays, gamma rays, and charged particles as well as Rutherford scattering of the incident beam. These radiations impinge on several detectors near the specimen (NaI, Ge(Li), Si(Li) and Si surface barrier). Using proton-excited x-rays all elements above Na may be detected with sensitivities 10 or 100 times that of the electron probe, while elements which can be estimated from their gamma rays include C, N, O, F, Na and Al. In most of our projects the distribution of a trace or minor element (e.g. F, N) is compared to that of a major element (e.g. Ca or Fe). Recent areas of application include archaeometry (diffusion profiles of F in bones and teeth; depth profiles of sodium in obsidian), geology (F concentrations in mineral grains; studies of the Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary), metallurgy (C, O, N in steel and in welds; S, O, C in corrosion layers), fisheries management (Zn, Sr in otoliths; F in dogfish fin spines and vertebrae), biology (Fe, Sr, N in egg shells; trace elements in human hair), and dental research

Multi-analytical characterization of archaeological ceramics. A case study from the Sforza Castle (Milano, Italy).

Science.gov (United States)

Barberini, V.; Maspero, F.; Galimberti, L.; Fusi, N.

2009-04-01

is a very high value compared to those usually measured in TL analysis of non-irradiated samples. This has to be taken into account when planning CT and TL analyses on the same sample. References Ribechini E., Colombini M.P., Giachi G., Modugno F. and Palletti P., 2008, A multi-analytical approach for the characterization of commodities in a ceramic jar from Antinoe (Egypt). Archaeometry, DOI: 10.1111/j.1475-4754.2008.00406.x. Séguin F. H., 1991, High-Resolution Computed Tomography and Digital Radiography of Archaeological and Art-Historical Objects, in Materials Issues in Art and Archaeology II , edited by P.B. Vandiver, J. R. Druzik and G. Wheeler (Materials Research Society, Pittsburgh). Tite M.S., Freestone I.C. and Bimsona M., 1984, Technological study of chinese porcelain of the Yuan dynasty. Archaeometry, 26 (2), 139-154.

Mangiare alla greca a Spina. Vasi, ricette e culture nel Mediterraneo occidentale tra VI e III secolo BCE

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Lorenzo Zamboni

2017-10-01

Full Text Available Cooking is the vital process of rendering potential foodstuffs edible, accessible and appropriate both in biological and in socio-cultural terms. Despite being too long neglected in archaeological studies, the food production processes have left remains that make up a very large part of the archaeological record. The aim of this paper is to outline a scenario of the Greek-style cooking vessels found along the western Mediterranean coasts between the Archaic and the Hellenistic period, namely within the main Etruscan and Greek ports of trade and wrecks, in order to highlight the cultural impact and the developments of this crucial aspect in the cultural and social life. The main objects of the research is a particular cooking ware produced in Greece between the sixth century BCE and the Romanization, widespread all around the Mediterranean sea, consisting of handy and refractory vessels (named for example chytra, kakkabe, lopas, thyeia etc.. The case-study is the Adriatic hub of Spina (near Comacchio, Ferrara, founded by the Etruscans at the end of the 6th century BCE, and one of the main economic partners of Athens during the 5th until the middle 4th BCE. Ongoing multidisciplinary projects are trying to return the complex interaction between the local (i.e ‘etruscan’ culinary habits and the Greek culture, in terms of availability, preferences, economic choices, trough the adoption of multiple investigation methodologies including archaeology, archaeometry, archaeozoology, archaeobotany, biochemistry.

Plasmas in compact traps: From ion sources to multidisciplinary research

Science.gov (United States)

Mascali, D.; Musumarra, A.; Leone, F.; Galatà, A.; Romano, F. P.; Gammino, S.

2017-09-01

In linear (minimum-B) magneto-static traps dense and hot plasmas are heated by electromagnetic radiation in the GHz domain via the Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR). The values of plasma density, temperature and confinement times ( n_eτ_i>10^{13} cm ^{-3} s; T_e>10 keV) are similar to the ones of thermonuclear plasmas. The research in this field -devoted to heating and confinement optimization- has been supported by numerical modeling and advanced diagnostics, for probing the plasma especially in a non-invasive way. ECR-based systems are nowadays able to produce extremely intense (tens or hundreds of mA) beams of light ions (p, d, He), and relevant currents of heavier elements (C, O, N) up to heavy ions like Xe, Pb, U. Such beams can be extracted from the trap by a proper electrostatic system. The above-mentioned properties make these plasmas very attractive for interdisciplinary researches also, such as i) nuclear decays rates measurements in stellar-like conditions, ii) energy conversion studies, being exceptional sources of short-wavelength electromagnetic radiation (EUV, X-rays, hard X-rays and gammas, useful in material science and archaeometry), iii) environments allowing precise spectroscopical measurements as benchmarks for magnetized astrophysical plasmas. The talk will give an overview about the state-of-the-art in the field of intense ion sources, and some new perspectives for interdisciplinary research, with a special attention to the developments based at INFN-LNS.

Stable isotopes back-track the origin of alabaster from the 'Ulrich Epitaph', Güstrow, Germany

Science.gov (United States)

Böttcher, Michael E.; Fuchs, Arnold; Gehre, Matthias; Krempler, Michael; Cooper, Anthony H.

2017-04-01

Natural calcium sulphate minerals (like gypsum, in the variety of 'alabaster') have been used for a long time for art and ornamental works despite its high solubility in aqueous solution due to its easy way of recovery and handling. To identify different European source provenances, geochemical and stable isotope forensic methods have been applied, thereby defining historical pathways of trade. A detailed geochemical characterization of both alabaster samples from the monument and potential sources is a pre-requisite for a backtracking material sources. Several tracers have been tested in the past identifiying the coupled sulfur and oxygen isotope composition of the sulfate molecule in the evaporite minerals to be highly characteristic. In the present study, we analyzed the stable sulfur and oxygen isotope composition of raw alabaster from the famous Ulrich Epithaph in Güstrow, Northeastern Germany, and compared the results with new measurements from one of the major European contributors of alabaster in the 16th century, the Cellaston quarry, Derbyshire (England) and literature data for further potential Spanish and Frensh source quarries (Kloppmann et a., 2014; Archaeometry, 56). We found that the stable sulfur and oxygen isotope signatures of alabaster from the Ulrich Epitaph indicate the origin from the Upper Triassic (Keuper) evaporites of the English Cellaston quarry and are not related to other potential alabaster sources. This further illustrates the alabaster trade way between England and Germany in the late 16th century.

Integrated analytical methodologies for the study of corrosion processes in archaeological bronzes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alberghina, Maria Francesca; Barraco, Rosita; Brai, Maria; Schillaci, Tiziano, E-mail: tschillaci@unipa.it; Tranchina, Luigi

2011-02-15

The investigations on structure and micro-chemical composition of archaeological metal alloys are needed in archaeometry. The aim of this study is devoted both to acquire information about their provenance and production technology, and to improve our understanding about the corrosion processes. In this paper we present the study of the corrosion phenomena of bronze samples, laboratory-made according to binary, ternary and quaternary alloys typical of Roman archaeometallurgical production through an integrated methodology based on the use of non or micro invasive physical techniques. Among the analysed samples, two were artificially aged through burial in the archaeological site of Tharros, along the west coast of Sardinia (Italy). The corrosion products, typical of the bronzes in archaeological sites near the sea, have been characterized by non invasive and micro-destructive measurements. In particular, the corrosion patinas were examined through optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and microanalysis, X-ray fluorescence and laser ablation spectroscopy. The use of integrated technologies allowed us to determine both the elemental composition and surface morphology of the patina, highlighting the correlation between patina nature and chemical composition of the burial context. Moreover, data obtained by the laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy along the depth profile on the samples, have yielded information about the stratigraphic layers of corrosion products and their growth. Finally, the depth profiles allowed us to verify both the chemical elements constituting the patina, the metal ions constituting the alloy and the occurrence of migration phenomena from bulk to the surface.

Integrated analytical methodologies for the study of corrosion processes in archaeological bronzes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alberghina, Maria Francesca; Barraco, Rosita; Brai, Maria; Schillaci, Tiziano; Tranchina, Luigi

2011-01-01

The investigations on structure and micro-chemical composition of archaeological metal alloys are needed in archaeometry. The aim of this study is devoted both to acquire information about their provenance and production technology, and to improve our understanding about the corrosion processes. In this paper we present the study of the corrosion phenomena of bronze samples, laboratory-made according to binary, ternary and quaternary alloys typical of Roman archaeometallurgical production through an integrated methodology based on the use of non or micro invasive physical techniques. Among the analysed samples, two were artificially aged through burial in the archaeological site of Tharros, along the west coast of Sardinia (Italy). The corrosion products, typical of the bronzes in archaeological sites near the sea, have been characterized by non invasive and micro-destructive measurements. In particular, the corrosion patinas were examined through optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and microanalysis, X-ray fluorescence and laser ablation spectroscopy. The use of integrated technologies allowed us to determine both the elemental composition and surface morphology of the patina, highlighting the correlation between patina nature and chemical composition of the burial context. Moreover, data obtained by the laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy along the depth profile on the samples, have yielded information about the stratigraphic layers of corrosion products and their growth. Finally, the depth profiles allowed us to verify both the chemical elements constituting the patina, the metal ions constituting the alloy and the occurrence of migration phenomena from bulk to the surface.

Physicochemical characterization of ceramics from Sao Paulo II archaeological site

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ribeiro, Rogerio Baria

2013-01-01

Archaeometry is a consolidated field with a wide application of nuclear analytical techniques for the characterization, protection, and restoration of archaeological pieces. This project aimed at studying the elementary chemical composition of 70 ceramic fragments samples from Sao Paulo II archaeological site, located along the Solimoes River channel, next to Coari city, in Brazilian Amazon. The characterization of samples was performed by neutron activation analysis (NAA). By the determination of 24 elements in the ceramic fragments ( Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Eu, Fe, Hf, K, La, Lu, Na, Nd, Sb, Sm. Rb, Se, Ta, Tb, Th, U, Yb and Zn), it was possible to define groups of samples regarding the similarity/dissimilarity in elementary chemical composition. For such a task, the multivariate statistical methods employed were cluster analysis (C A), principal component analysis (PCA) and discriminant analysis (DA). Afterwards, seven ceramic fragments were selected based on the groups previously established, for the characterization of the site temporal horizon. Those ceramic fragments were analyzed by thermoluminescence (TL) and EPR for dating purposes. The firing temperatures were determined by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) technique, in order to infer about some aspects of the ceramic manufacture employed by the ancient peoples that lived in Sao Paulo 11. By the results obtained in this study, it was possible to identify the quantity of clay sources employed by the ceramists and the age of the ceramic pieces. Therefore, the results of this research may contribute to the study on the occupation dynamics in the pre-colonial Brazilian Amazon. (author)

Physicochemical characterization of ceramics from Sao Paulo II archaeological site; Caracterizacao fisico-quimica da ceramica do sitio arqueologico Sao Paulo II

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ribeiro, Rogerio Baria

2013-08-01

Archaeometry is a consolidated field with a wide application of nuclear analytical techniques for the characterization, protection, and restoration of archaeological pieces. This project aimed at studying the elementary chemical composition of 70 ceramic fragments samples from Sao Paulo II archaeological site, located along the Solimoes River channel, next to Coari city, in Brazilian Amazon. The characterization of samples was performed by neutron activation analysis (NAA). By the determination of 24 elements in the ceramic fragments ( Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Eu, Fe, Hf, K, La, Lu, Na, Nd, Sb, Sm. Rb, Se, Ta, Tb, Th, U, Yb and Zn), it was possible to define groups of samples regarding the similarity/dissimilarity in elementary chemical composition. For such a task, the multivariate statistical methods employed were cluster analysis (C A), principal component analysis (PCA) and discriminant analysis (DA). Afterwards, seven ceramic fragments were selected based on the groups previously established, for the characterization of the site temporal horizon. Those ceramic fragments were analyzed by thermoluminescence (TL) and EPR for dating purposes. The firing temperatures were determined by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) technique, in order to infer about some aspects of the ceramic manufacture employed by the ancient peoples that lived in Sao Paulo 11. By the results obtained in this study, it was possible to identify the quantity of clay sources employed by the ceramists and the age of the ceramic pieces. Therefore, the results of this research may contribute to the study on the occupation dynamics in the pre-colonial Brazilian Amazon. (author)

Limitations of portable XRF implementations in evaluating depth information: an archaeometric perspective

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gianoncelli, A.; Kourousias, G.

2007-01-01

Portable instruments that can perform non-destructive analysis techniques are of great importance due to their high applicability, which can extend beyond the controlled laboratory environment. Their importance has long been recognised in the archaeometric field where art historians, conservators and restorers perform analyses on art works without causing any damage and without the need to move the objects to specialized laboratories. The X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technique is a popular choice in the archaeometric field for in situ investigations with portable instrumentations. This enables qualitative (elemental analysis) and quantitative (chemical composition) information retrieval from the objects of interest. Quantitative analyses can be performed under the assumption that the sample is homogeneous and its surface material is the same as in the rest of the object. This work aims to expose various details, including the strengths and the weaknesses of typical XRF analyses in the case of surface alterations, focusing on portable implementations. The chosen approach will be in line with certain issues considered important in archaeometry; nevertheless the presented findings are valid beyond this. We will focus our discussion on two kinds of objects that can be found in the cultural heritage field: artefacts that had their surface material altered due to prolonged exposure to the environment and artefacts that have been gilded. Our work also includes a critically examined overview of relevant information available in the literature. The core of our analysis focuses on two main distinct cases, that of multilayer objects and that of bronzes. (orig.)

Characterization of an Indian sword: classic and noninvasive methods of investigation in comparison

Science.gov (United States)

Barzagli, E.; Grazzi, F.; Williams, A.; Edge, D.; Scherillo, A.; Kelleher, J.; Zoppi, M.

2015-04-01

The evolution of metallurgy in history is one of the most interesting topics in Archaeometry. The production of steel and its forging methods to make tools and weapons are topics of great interest in the field of the history of metallurgy. In the production of weapons, we find almost always the highest level of technology. These were generally produced by skilled craftsmen who used the best quality materials available. Indian swords are an outstanding example in this field and one of the most interesting classes of objects for the study of the evolution of metallurgy. This work presents the study of a Shamsheer (a sword with a curved blade with single edge) made available by the Wallace Collection in London. The purpose of this study was to determine the composition, the microstructure, the level and the direction of residual strain and their distribution in the blade. We have used two different approaches: the classical one (metallography) and a nondestructive technique (neutron diffraction): In this way, we can test differences and complementarities of these two techniques. To obtain a good characterization of artifacts studied by traditional analytical methods, an invasive approach is required. However, the most ancient objects are scarce in number, and the most interesting ones are usually in an excellent state of conservation, so it is unthinkable to apply techniques with a destructive approach. The analysis of blades that has been performed by metallographic microscopy has demonstrated the specificity of the production of this type of steel. However, metallographic analysis can give only limited information about the structural characteristics of these artifacts of high quality, and it is limited to the sampled areas. The best approach for nondestructive analysis is therefore to use neutron techniques.

Protocols for Thermoluminescence and Optically Stimulated Luminescence Research at DOSAR

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bernal, SM

2004-01-01

The Life Sciences Division (LSD) of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has a long record of radiation dosimetry research at the Dosimetry Applications Research (DOSAR) facility complex. These facilities have been used by a broad segment of the research community to perform a variety of experiments in areas including, but not limited to, radiobiology, radiation dosimeter and instrumentation development and calibration, and materials testing in a variety of radiation environments. Collaborations with the University of Tennessee-Knoxville (UTK) have also led to important contributions in the area of archaeometry, particularly as it relates to the use of radiation dosimetry to date archaeological artifacts. This manual is to serve as the primary instruction and operation manual for dosimetric and archaeometric research at DOSAR involving thermoluminescence (TL) and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL). Its purpose is to (1) provide protocols for common practices associated with the research, (2) outline the relevant organizational structure, (3) identify the Quality Assurance plan, and (4) describe all the procedures, operations, and responsibilities for safe and proper operation of associated equipment. Each person who performs research at DOSAR using TL/OSL equipment is required to read the latest revision of this manual and be familiar with its contents, and to sign and date the manual's master copy indicating that the manual has been read and understood. The TL/OSL Experimenter is also required to sign the manual after each revision to signify that the changes are understood. Each individual is responsible for completely understanding the proper operation of the TL/OSL equipment used and for following the guidance contained within this manual. The instructions, protocols, and operating procedures in this manual do not replace, supersede, or alter the hazard mitigation controls identified in the Research Safety Summary (''Thermoluminescence/Optically Stimulated

IBA in the museum

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Menu, M.

1990-01-01

The Research Laboratory of the Museums of France (LRMF) has been a part of the Louvre Museum since 1931. At the beginning, paintings were only examined by means of optical microscopy, under UV or IR light, or by X-ray radiography. With the development of archaeometry in the early 1960s, different spectrometric techniques have been applied to the analysis of works of art and archaeological objects: UV spectrometry, XRF, and even SEM coupled to an X-ray Si(Li) detector. Crystalline objects were investigated with XRD and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR); organic matter with gas chromatography, FTIR, UV and visible spectrophotometry. Thus the principal aim of the LRMF is to characterize the materials and the techniques involved in the creation of art and archaeological objects, for example, methods of production, provenance studies, authentication, and conservation. (The problem of dating is for the time being only a minor subject of research at the LRMF). Because of the valuable nature of such objects, nondestructive methods of analysis have been developed, and consequently the results have to be more and more accurate to answer the questions put to us by the art historian. Moreover, the works of art must stay inside the security area of the museum. Therefore, it was decided in 1982 to install within the Louvre an accelerator dedicated solely to museum problems. The installation of AGLAE, begun in 1984, has now been completed. The accelerator system, a Pelletron 6SDH2 from NEC, was rendered operational in June 1988. A general consensus with regard to the applications of the ion beam techniques in art and archaeology was arrived at during the International Workshop held in Pont-a-Mousson, France in 1985, which brought together museum scientists as well as IBA physicists who had applied these techniques to archaeology, geology and metallurgy. (orig./WL)

X-ray fluorescence in IAEA Member States: Spain

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roldan, C.; Ferrero, J.L.

2004-01-01

Full text: Instrumental facilities of the ICMUV include: a Total-reflection X-Ray Fluorescence (TXRF), laboratory and portable Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometers. These equipments are employed in the field of the art and archaeometry. Current projects are: EDXRF analysis of blue pigments used in Valencian ceramics. EDXRF analyses of cobalt-blue pigments were made on 73 pieces of Valencian ceramics from the beginning of the 14th century up to 20th century. These ceramic samples have the pigment decoration applied together with a tin opacified lead glaze cover on the clay body. The comparison between EDXRF spectra from coloured and non-coloured areas provides information about the pigment composition. The following elements: Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn and As are identified as characteristics of the blue pigments. Different association of these elements as well as correlation with the chronology of the samples were found. These results can be used for identifying the different types of cobalt ores employed in the manufacture of the blue pigments to study their provenance. Non-destructive analysis of paper supports used in prints: In paper based works of art it is not possible to separate the support from the work of the author. Then, the maximum knowledge of the support in this kind of works is desirable. In this work, Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) was used to determine the elemental composition of a set of European and Oriental papers from the 20th century and an Arabian paper from the 14th century. These papers were manufactured with different production techniques and used as support for writing, drawing and printing. Normalised fluorescence yields of the elements to the weight of the paper show that there are some correlations between its elemental composition and the type of paper, provenance and use. Therefore, the Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) technique could be used for a better characterization and

XRD applied to the determination of pigments and composition of lithic materials and ceramics from archaeological pre-hispanic sites of the Rio de la Plata

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Beovide, Laura; Pardo, Helena; Faccio, Ricardo; Mombru, Alvaro; Piston, Mariela

2011-01-01

from the sources of raw materials compared. Both studies are encouraging to improve the study of prehistoric materials through different archaeometry techniques. (author)

2H Stable Isotope Analysis of Tooth Enamel: A Pilot Study

Science.gov (United States)

Holobinko, Anastasia; Kemp, Helen; Meier-Augenstein, Wolfram; Prowse, Tracy; Ford, Susan

2010-05-01

Stable isotope analysis of biogenic tissues such as tooth enamel and bone mineral has become a well recognized and increasingly important method for determining provenance of human remains, and has been used successfully in bioarchaeological studies as well as forensic investigations (Lee-Thorp, 2008; Meier-Augenstein and Fraser, 2008). Particularly, 18O and 2H stable isotopes are well established proxies as environmental indicators of climate (temperature) and source water and are therefore considered as indicators of geographic life trajectories of animals and humans (Hobson et al., 2004; Schwarcz and Walker, 2006). While methodology for 2H analysis of human hair, fingernails, and bone collagen is currently used to determine geographic origin and identify possible migration patterns, studies involving the analysis of 2H in tooth enamel appear to be nonexistent in the scientific literature. The apparent lack of research in this area is believed to have two main reasons. (1) Compared to the mineral calcium hydroxylapatite Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, in tooth enamel forming bio-apatite carbonate ions replace some of the hydroxyl ions at a rate of one CO32 replacing two OH, yet published figures for the degree of substitution vary (Wopenka and Pasteris, 2005). (2) Most probably due to the aforementioned no published protocols exist for sample preparation and analytical method to obtain δ2H-values from the hydroxyl fraction of tooth enamel. This dilemma has been addressed through a pilot study to establish feasibility of 2H stable isotope analysis of ground tooth enamel by continuous-flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) coupled on-line to a high-temperature conversion elemental analyzer (TC/EA). An array of archaeological and modern teeth has been analyzed under different experimental conditions, and results from this pilot study are being presented. References: Lee-Thorp, J.A. (2008) Archaeometry, 50, 925-950 Meier-Augenstein, W. and Fraser, I. (2008) Science & Justice

X-ray fluorescence in IAEA Member States: Spain

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roldan, C.; Ferrero, J.L.

2003-01-01

Full text: The study of patrimonial works by non-destructive techniques has wakened up great interest because they allow the analysis of unique pieces without attempting their integrity. The Archaeometry Unit (UA) of the Instituto de Ciencia de los Materiales of the Universidad de Valencia (ICMUV) has carried out EDXRF analyses for the identification of forged works of art using portable instrumentation. In addition to the detection of forged works of art, EDXRF may help to obtain information of the art pieces that could be important to determine its value. In recent works we have presented some examples of the use of the EDXRF spectrometry to obtain information that can be important to value a work of art. First, we have applied this technique to detect fakes in some paintings which could be attributed to Joaquin Sorolla. The comparison of the EDXRF spectra of these paintings with a database of well-known Sorolla's paintings (database made by the UA) gives additional arguments to judge about the originality of the work. The fact of detecting titanium in 'Carros en la Playa' of the Museo de Bellas Artes de La Habana makes almost impossible that this painting was painted by Sorolla. In 'Portrait of Two Children' we have detected zinc as the most important element, which is not observed in our database. This could indicate that this work is also a fake although it is not a conclusive argument. In addition, the EDXRF technique has been found helpful to determine the degree of originality of a work of art because it is sometimes able to distinguish between the original part from the author and latter modifications from restorations. This has been used in the - 'Fondo de Lucillo Funerario Gotico de la Iglesia de San Esteban de Cuellar' among other works of art. The use of EDXRF analysis to obtain technological information of the process involved in producing the work of art for paintings and for gold-plated pieces has also been made. Finally, as example of the potential

Pedological and mineralogical investigations on a soil-paleosoil sequence within Andosols in the Western Cordillera of the Peruvian Andes (region Laramate, 14.5S)

Science.gov (United States)

Leceta Gobitz, Fernando; Mächtle, Bertil; Schukraft, Gerd; Meyer, Hans-Peter; Eitel, Bernhard

2016-04-01

-Columbian cultures." Archaeometry 47: 137-185. Miller, D. C. and P. W. Birkeland (1992). "Soil catena variation along an alpine climatic transect, northern Peruvian Andes." Geoderma 55(3): 211-223. Schittek, K., et al. (2014). "Holocene environmental changes in the highlands of the southern Peruvian Andes (14° S) and their impact on pre-Columbian cultures." Climate of the past discussions 10: 1707-1746.

Art, historical and cultural heritage objects studied with different non-destructive analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rizzutto, Marcia A.; Tabacniks, Manfredo H.; Added, Nemitala; Campos, Pedro H.O.V.; Curado, Jessica F.; Kajiya, Elizabeth A.M.

2012-01-01

modifications performed at the time. The combination of these scientific examinations aimed better qualitative and quantitative analytical research in art and archaeology and also to supply results that subsidize the investigations of authenticity of these objects while stimulating research in the art and in archaeology objects (archaeometry) in Brazilian Museums. In this work we present some studies of ceramics, pigments, papers and photographs from the collections of the Museu Paulista, Museu de Arte Contemporanea (MAC), Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia (MAE) and Instituto de Estudos Brasileiros (IEB). (author)

The Maltrata valley in the inter regional trade nets of the obsidian in Meso america: origin by neutron activation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Molina V, R. O.

2011-01-01

described the chemical composition of the obsidian and some data about the deposits; also the archaeometry is defined, and the different physical and chemical techniques used for the characterization in the archaeology are revised, showing the advantages and disadvantages among each one of them. Lastly in the chapter fifth the obtained data of the activation neutron analysis are exposed which reflects in a temporary way the raw material deposits that they supplied from obsidian to the valley through the trade nets. (Author)

XRD applied to the determination of pigments and composition of lithic materials and ceramics from archaeological pre-hispanic sites of the Rio de la Plata

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Beovide, Laura [Department of Archeology, National Museum of Anthropology, Montevideo, (Uruguay); Pardo, Helena; Faccio, Ricardo; Mombru, Alvaro [Centro NanoMat, Polo Tecnologico de Pando, Facultad de Quimica, Universidad de la Republica, Pando, Canelones (Uruguay); Crystallography, Solid State and Materials Laboratory (Cryssmat-Lab), DETEMA, Facultad de Quimica, Universidad de la Republica, Gral, Montevideo (Uruguay); Piston, Mariela, E-mail: mpiston@fq.edu.u [Analytical Chemistry, Estrella Campos Department, Facultad de Quimica, Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo (Uruguay)

2011-07-01

suggests that most likely the source of supply for the amphibolites instruments come from the sources of raw materials compared. Both studies are encouraging to improve the study of prehistoric materials through different archaeometry techniques. (author)

Art, historical and cultural heritage objects studied with different non-destructive analysis

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rizzutto, Marcia A.; Tabacniks, Manfredo H.; Added, Nemitala; Campos, Pedro H.O.V.; Curado, Jessica F.; Kajiya, Elizabeth A.M. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (IF/USP), SP (Brazil). Inst. de Fisica

2012-07-01

modifications performed at the time. The combination of these scientific examinations aimed better qualitative and quantitative analytical research in art and archaeology and also to supply results that subsidize the investigations of authenticity of these objects while stimulating research in the art and in archaeology objects (archaeometry) in Brazilian Museums. In this work we present some studies of ceramics, pigments, papers and photographs from the collections of the Museu Paulista, Museu de Arte Contemporanea (MAC), Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia (MAE) and Instituto de Estudos Brasileiros (IEB). (author)

Deciphering a removed text on a 16th c. centrepiece: The benefits of using AGLAEMap and AXSIA to process PIXE maps.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lemasson, Quentin [Center for Research and Restoration of Museums of France, Paris (France); Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris (France). Federation de recherche NewAGLAE; Kotula, Paul [Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States); Pichon, Laurent [Center for Research and Restoration of Museums of France, Paris (France); Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris (France). Federation de recherche NewAGLAE; Pacheco, Claire [Center for Research and Restoration of Museums of France, Paris (France); Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris (France). Federation de recherche NewAGLAE; Moignard, Brice [Center for Research and Restoration of Museums of France, Paris (France); Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris (France). Federation de recherche NewAGLAE; Doyle, Barney Lee [Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States); Van Bennekom, Joosje [Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam (The Netherlands)

2015-09-01

In the field of archaeometry, it is not uncommon to be presented with art objects that contain inscriptions, signatures and other writings that are nearly impossible to read. Scanned microbeam PIXE offers an attractive approach to attack this problem, but even then the distribution of characteristic X-rays of the element(s) used in these writings can remain illegible. We show in this paper that two methods were used to reveal the inscription: first the use of a GUPIXWin, TRAUPIXE and AGLAEMap software suite enables to make quantitative analysis of each pixel, to visualize the results and to select X-ray peaks that could enable to distinguish letters. Then, the Automated eXpert Spectral Image Analysis (AXSIA) program developed at Sandia, which analyzes the x-ray intensity vs. Energy and (X, Y) position “datacubes”, was used to factor the datacube into 1) principle component spectral shapes and 2) the weighting images of these components. The specimen selected for this study was a silver plaque representing a scroll from the so-called “MerkelscheTafelaufsatz,” a centrepiece made by the Nuremberg goldsmith Wenzel Jamnitzer in 1549. X-ray radiography of the plaque shows lines of different silver thicknesses, meaning that a text has been removed. The PIXE analysis used a 3-MeV proton beam focused to 50μm and scanned across the sample on different areas of interest of several cm². This analysis showed major elements of Cu and Ag, and minor elements such as Pb, Au, Hg. X-ray intensity maps were then made by setting windows on the various x-ray peaks but the writing on the centrepiece was not revealed even if the map of Cu after data treatment at AGLAE enabled to distinguish some letters. The AXSIA program enabled to factor two main spectral shapes from the datacube that were quite similar and involved virtually all of the X-rays being generated. Nevertheless, small differences between these factors were observed for the Cu K X-rays, Pb, Bi and Au L X-rays. The

Large Devices of Industrial Culture: the Preservation of their Historical Evidence

Science.gov (United States)

Keller-Kempas, Ruth

Development of material science and engineering technology is present in devices of the last 150 years. How can the historical evidence of their construction and use, the transfer of technological stages of development be preserved as a special quality in cultural tradition? The conservation of technical artefacts as a cultural heritage of western civilisation has developed scientific methods of conservation so as to respect their authenticity as materialised references of the past. During the last fifteen years these methods have been evaluated in the unique training program for this specialisation of conservation discipline at the HTW Berlin, University for Applied Sciences. They are enough standardised now to be applied without hesitation on objects being kept indoor in a museum or private collection. It is much more difficult to keep devices outside or, as is the case in Observatory - at climates changing between inside aud outside situations. The paper will show a few examples of how to develop concepts for conservation and how it is teclinically possible to preserve the very important original surfaces of the objects, their authentic materiality. As soon as the objects are kept as part of cultural history or history of science they change their function and can not be kept in the same manner as before. They give evidence of their materiality. The archaeometry of modern times is a new and expanding branch of historic research. Moreover the surface of a historic device is the point of contact between passed times and the presence for the general public as much as for the scientists. It will be demonstrated how large the loss of historic information and thus of cultural value of objects can be by renovation instead of considerate conservation. Some examples of careful conservation work carried out on big objects other than an observatory are presented. The paper will then summarise the possibilities and difficulties of doing such work on large devices still in

Archaeological and historical glasses: A bibliometric study

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Villegas, M. A.

2009-08-01

Full Text Available Glass is one of the materials more widely developed throughout History. In the last decades, it has been stated a growing demand in the application of chemical-physical techniques to obtain more detailed information on technology and production of glasses in past societies. This research field lies within the domain of archaeometry. Results of a bibliometric study undertaken on 201 scientific articles published on ancient and historical glasses between 1987 and 2008 are presented in this paper. The study was carried out with the aim to address the evolution of glass archaeometric investigations in the last 20 years. Date of publication, journal and article types, topic, glass typology, analytical techniques, origin country of authors, and geographic location of samples were analyzed in this study, among other parameters. Resulting data indicate that archaeometric research on glasses has experienced an exponential growth in the period 2000-2008. Roman and Medieval glasses have been the materials more frequently investigated.

El vidrio es uno de los materiales que más se ha utilizado a lo largo de la historia. En las últimas décadas se ha producido un aumento en la aplicación de técnicas químico-físicas para estudiar de forma más detallada la tecnología y producción de vidrio en las sociedades del pasado. Este tipo de investigación se encuadra en la disciplina conocida como Arqueometría. En este trabajo se ha realizado un estudio bibliométrico que abarca 201 artículos científicos sobre vidrio arqueológico e histórico publicados entre 1987 y 2008. El estudio se llevó a cabo con el objetivo de conocer la evolución de las investigaciones arqueométricas sobre vidrio en los últimos 21 años. Los parámetros analizados en este estudio bibliométrico fueron: fecha de publicación, tipo de revista y de artículo, tema, tipología del vidrio, técnicas analíticas, origen de los autores y localización geográfica de las

Laboratory of ion beam applications at ATOMKI

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Borbely-Kiss, I.; Huszank, R.; Kertesz, Zs.; Kiss, A.Z.; Koltay, E.; Rajta, I.; Simon, A.; Szabo, Gy.; Szikszai, Z.; Szilasi, S.Z.; Szoboszlai, Z.; Uzonyi, I.

2008-01-01

significant improvement of the IBA service was the installation of an Oxford Microbeams Ltd. type Scanning Nuclear Microprobe (SNM) facility in a minimal configuration with magnetic doublet lenses in 1994. The new facility widened the possibilities of new applications in geology, biology, archaeometry, materials science and aerosol study, moreover, it made possible to introduce completely new fields like proton beam lithography and Ion Beam Induced Charge studies. The research infrastructure of the laboratory was upgraded in the framework of the EU co-funded Economic Competitiveness Operative Programme (GVOP-3.2.1.-2004-04-0402/3.0) in 2006, including oil-free vacuum system, vacuum coating system, nuclear electronics, X-ray detectors, optical microscope and a quadrupole magnet lens

Annual Report 2000; Informe Anual 2000

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2000-07-01

The Annual Report 2000 of the Technological Research Direction at the National Institute of Nuclear Research (ININ) of Mexico presents its activities during year 2000. It is described a work plan and budget for the exercise in 2001. The projects, services and work programs of those different management offices adscripted to this Direction were revised and evaluated. The Technological Innovation Management office is formed by two departments, the one of Control and the one Evaluation and Linking. The projects which form the Management office comprise: Neutron activation analysis, Environmental radiation surveillance, gamma spectroscopy, archaeometry, nuclear application studies and support to priority projects. The Radiological Safety management office provides internal and external services in matter of radiation protection and radioactive waste negotiation to fulfil with the applicable standardization. This management office realizes the link function with the National Commission of Nuclear Safety and Safeguards (CNSNS) as for the licenses, authorizations and permissions for nuclear and radioactive facilities and for those activities which are involucrated with the use of radioactive material and devices generators of ionizing radiation in the National Institute of Nuclear Research. The Nuclear Technology management office is composed of two departments: Chemical Analysis wherever analytical studies are realized to fulfil with national standards and international codes to providing services at different enterprises and the Reactor wherever an aging negotiation program is established for him (thirty operation years) which allows to mitigate or to correct those effects by aging in facilities. The Health Nuclear applications management office consists of two departments: Metrology which obtains the authorization from the Commerce and Industrial Fomentation Secretary (SECOFI) of the national standards of beta particles, neutrons and coincidences, as well as the

Thermoelectrically cooled semiconductor detectors for non-destructive analysis of works of art by means of energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cesareo, Roberto; Ettore Gigante, Giovanni; Castellano, Alfredo

1999-01-01

Thermoelectrically cooled semiconductor detectors, such as Si-PIN, Si-drift, Cd 1-x Zn x Te and HgI 2 , coupled to miniaturized low-power X-ray tubes, are well suited in portable systems for energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF), analysis of archaeological samples. The Si-PIN detector is characterized by a thickness of about 300 μm, an area of about 2x3 mm 2 , an energy resolution of about 200-250 eV at 5.9 keV and an entrance window of 25-75 μm. The Si-drift detector has approximately the same area and thickness, but an energy resolution of 155 eV at 5.9 keV. The efficiency of these detectors is around 100% from 4 to 10 keV, and then decreases versus energy, reaching ∼9% at 30 keV. Coupled to a miniaturized 10 kV, 0.1 mA, Ca-anode or to a miniaturized 30 kV, 0.1 mA, W-anode X-ray tubes, portable systems can be constructed, which are able to analyse K-lines of elements up to about silver, and L-lines of heavy elements. The Cd 1-x Zn x Te detector has an area of 4 mm 2 and a thickness of 3 mm. It has an energy resolution of about 300 eV at 5.9 keV, and an efficiency of 100% over the whole range of X-rays. Finally the HgI 2 detector has an efficiency of about 100% in the whole range of X-rays, and an energy resolution of about 200 eV at 5.9 keV. Coupled to a small 50-60 kV, 1 mA, W-anode X-ray tube, portable systems can be constructed, for the analysis of practically all elements. These systems were applied to analysis in the field of archaeometry and in all applications for which portable systems are needed or at least useful (for example X-ray transmission measurements, X-ray microtomography and so on). Results of in-field use of these detectors and a comparison among these room temperature detectors in relation to concrete applications are presented. More specifically, concerning EDXRF analysis, ancient gold samples were analysed in Rome, in Mexico City and in Milan, ancient bronzes in Sassari, in Bologna, in Chieti and in Naples, and sulfur (due to

Annual Report 2000

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2000-01-01

The Annual Report 2000 of the Technological Research Direction at the National Institute of Nuclear Research (ININ) of Mexico presents its activities during year 2000. It is described a work plan and budget for the exercise in 2001. The projects, services and work programs of those different management offices adscripted to this Direction were revised and evaluated. The Technological Innovation Management office is formed by two departments, the one of Control and the one Evaluation and Linking. The projects which form the Management office comprise: Neutron activation analysis, Environmental radiation surveillance, gamma spectroscopy, archaeometry, nuclear application studies and support to priority projects. The Radiological Safety management office provides internal and external services in matter of radiation protection and radioactive waste negotiation to fulfil with the applicable standardization. This management office realizes the link function with the National Commission of Nuclear Safety and Safeguards (CNSNS) as for the licenses, authorizations and permissions for nuclear and radioactive facilities and for those activities which are involucrated with the use of radioactive material and devices generators of ionizing radiation in the National Institute of Nuclear Research. The Nuclear Technology management office is composed of two departments: Chemical Analysis wherever analytical studies are realized to fulfil with national standards and international codes to providing services at different enterprises and the Reactor wherever an aging negotiation program is established for him (thirty operation years) which allows to mitigate or to correct those effects by aging in facilities. The Health Nuclear applications management office consists of two departments: Metrology which obtains the authorization from the Commerce and Industrial Fomentation Secretary (SECOFI) of the national standards of beta particles, neutrons and coincidences, as well as the

New insights on the geological evolution of the continental margin of Southeastern Brazil derived from zircon and apatite (U-Th-Sm)/He and fission-track data

Science.gov (United States)

Krob, Florian; Stippich, Christian; Glasmacher, Ulrich A.; Hackspacher, Peter

2017-04-01

New insights on the geological evolution of the continental margin of Southeastern Brazil derived from zircon and apatite (U-Th-Sm)/He and fission-track data Krob, F.C.1, Stippich, C. 1, Glasmacher, U.A.1, Hackspacher, P.C.2 (1) Institute of Earth Sciences, Research Group Thermochronology and Archaeometry, Heidelberg University, INF 234, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany (2) Instituto de Geociências e Ciências Exatas, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Av. 24-A, 1515 Rio Claro, SP, 13506-900, Brazil Passive continental margins are important geoarchives related to mantle dynamics, the breakup of continents, lithospheric dynamics, and other processes. The main concern yields the quantifying long-term lithospheric evolution of the continental margin between São Paulo and Laguna in southeastern Brazil since the Neoproterozoic. We put special emphasis on the reactivation of old fracture zones running into the continent and their constrains on the landscape evolution. In this contribution, we represent already consisting thermochronological data attained by fission-track and (U-Th-Sm)/He analysis on apatites and zircons. The zircon fission-track ages range between 108.4 (15.0) and 539.9 (68.4) Ma, the zircon (U-Th-Sm)/He ages between 72.9 (5.8) and 427.6 (1.8) Ma whereas the apatite fission-track ages range between 40.0 (5.3) and 134.7 (8.0) Ma, and the apatite (U-Th-Sm)/He ages between 32.1 (1.52) and 92.0 (1.86) Ma. These thermochronological ages from metamorphic, sedimentary and intrusive rocks show six distinct blocks (Laguna, Florianópolis, Curitiba, Ilha Comprida, Peruibe and Santos) with different evolution cut by old fracture zones. Furthermore, models of time-temperature evolution illustrate the differences in Pre- to post-rift exhumation histories of these blocks. The presented data will provide an insight into the complex exhumation history of the continental margin based on the existing literature data on the evolution of the Paraná basin in Brazil and the latest

L'archeologia dell'architettura in Italia nell'ultimo quinquennio (1997-2001

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Brogiolo, Gian Pietro

2002-12-01

Full Text Available The author makes a summary on the situation of Building Archaeology in Italy from the 1990s onwards, when the creation of the journal “Archeologia dell’architettura” and several Congresses made it possible for different groups of investigators to share their strategies and experience, both regarding stratigraphic readings and their relationship to restoration and the study of buildings techniques, dimensional chronology and archaeometry. A key argument in this debate has been the application of this set of methods to architectural restoration, and experimentation on the static equilibrium sequence, degradation and wall coating as crucial instruments in a correct restoration process. This debate has given lesser focus to the main goal of the archaeologist: to obtain historical information from stratigraphic reconstructions, for which becomes in turn necessary to prepare repertoires and undertake extensive studies, relate archaeology to agrarian structures and landscape transformations as well as with social and economic structures. Archaeologists must work on this issue on the following years, without leaving aside the intimate relationship established with architectural restoration, to preserve the building patrimony in a context which should promote cultural multicentralism, the exchange of ideas and a recovery of civil society.Il contributo delinea un bilancio dell'Archeologia dell'architettura in Italia a partire dalla metà degli anni '90 del XX secolo, quando alcuni convegni e la neonata rivista "Archeologia dell'Architettura", misero a confronto le esperienze maturate in più centri di ricerca, che riguardavano non solo l’analisi stratigrafica delle murature il suo rapporto con il Restauro, ma anche allo studio delle tecniche costruttive, della mensiocronologia e dell’archeometria. Da questo punto di vista sono da segnalare da un lato le sperimentazioni nella costruzione delle sequenze degli equilibri statici, del degrado, degli

Isotope characterisation of historical alabaster quarries in Western Europe.

Science.gov (United States)

Kloppmann, Wolfram; Leroux, Lise; Bromblet, Philippe; Cooper, Anthony H.; Nestler, Angela; Guerrot, Catherine; Montech, Anne-Thérèse; Worley, Noel

2015-04-01

ranging from the 14th to 16th century from the Louvre Museum, Cleveland Museum of Fine Arts, the Petit Palais Museum in Avignon and several regional collections and monuments. Burke W. H., Denison R. E., Hetherington E. A., Koepnick R. B., Nelson H. F., and Otto J. B. (1982) Variation of seawater 87Sr/86Sr throughout Phanerozoic time. Geology 10, 516-519. Claypool G. E., Holser W. T., Kaplan I. R., Sakai H., and Zak I. (1980) The age curves of sulfur and oxygen isotopes in marine sulfate and their mutual interpretation. Chem. Geol. 28, 199-260. Denison R. E., Kirkland D. W., and Evans R. (1998) Using strontium isotopes to determine the age and origin of gypsum and anhydrite beds. J. Geol. 106, 1-17. Kloppmann W., Leroux L., Bromblet P., Guerrot C., Proust E., Cooper A. H., Worley N., Smeds S. A., and Bengtsson H. (2014) Tracing Medieval and Renaissance Alabaster Works of Art Back to Quarries: A Multi-Isotope (Sr, S, O) Approach. Archaeometry 56, 203-219.

The effect of pre-Hispanic agriculture practices on soils in the Western Cordillera of the Peruvian Andes (region Laramate, 14.5°S)

Science.gov (United States)

Leceta, Fernando; Mächtle, Bertil; Schukraft, Gerd; Eitel, Bernhard

2013-04-01

) could be also attested in the Laramate area. Retention of eroded loessic material transported against the terrace walls could be associated to periods of increased geomorphodynamics founded in the surroundings by 600 AD (Forbriger & Schittek 2011, unpublished raw data). References Branch, N., Kemp, R., Silva, B., Meddens F., Williams, A., Kendall, A., Vivanco Pomacanchari, C. (2007): Testing the sustainability and sensitivity to climatic change of terrace agricultural systems in the Peruvian Andes: a pilot study. Journal of Archaeological Science 34 (2007) 1-9. Eitel, B., Hecht, S., Mächtle, B., Schukraft, G., Kadereit, A., Wagner, G. A., Kromer, B., Unkel, I., Reindel, M. (2005): Geoarchaeological evidence from desert loess in the Nasca-Palpa region, southern Peru: Palaeoenvironmental changes and their impact on Pre-Columbian cultures. Archaeometry 47, 137-185. Mächtle, B. (2007): Geomorphologisch-bodenkundliche Untersuchungen zur Rekonstruktion der holozänen Umweltgeschichte in der nördlichen Atacama im Raum Palpa/Südperu. Dissertation, Heidelberger Geographische Arbeiten 123.- 227 S.

Staroegyptské měděné a bronzové artefakty v Egyptském muzeu Lipské univerzity. Průběžná zpráva o projektu // Ancient Egyptian copper and bronze artefacts in the Egyptian Museum of Leipzig University. Preliminary report on the project

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Martin Odler

2018-04-01

Aniba, which was made by the cold hammering of arsenical copper, bul with rather surprising amount (1 .0% of tin (AMUL 4647; Figs. 7-8. The fifth is the middle part of an early Dynasty 18 dagger cast from a tin bronze alloy (AMUL 2153; Figs. 9- 1 0. A poster with the analysis of the XRF results was presented at the 41st lnternational Symposium on Archaeometry at Kalamata (Greece and received honorable mention from The Society for Archaeological Sciences in the Best Student Poster competition (Kmošek - Odler et a/. 2016. All samples will be submitted to neutron activation analysis, and the selected corpus will be also analysed for lead isotope ratios.

Rise and course of an elusive technology: metal gilding

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Perea, Alicia

2008-12-01

Full Text Available Research on mercury or fire gilding technology during Prehistory and Antiquity is at its beginnings due to the fact that its identification and characterization is completely dependent on analytical techniques, mainly non destructive Archaeometry techniques allowing an easy characterization of the archaeological objects. Actually we rely on a small number of analytical data, much more limited if we place ourselves within the Iberian peninsula or if we are concerned with the early stages of the use of this technology because... nobody finds what it is not looked for.
We submit a summary of data anlyisis by XRF and PIXE in order to characterize two groups of items: on the one hand a special type of iberian brooch with animals and hunting scenes, made up of gilded silver, and on the other the visigothic treasure of Torredonjimeno, Jaén. From the debate on these results the hypothesis of a local origin for fire gilding technology during the iberian period, about 4th century B.C., has come out regardless other centers of possible inception in Europe or the Mediterranean. A final stage would be represented by visigothic jewellery that closes the late Antiquity technological domain system up.

La investigación sobre la técnica del dorado al fuego con amalgama de mercurio durante la Prehistoria y Antigüedad no ha hecho más que comenzar debido a que su identificación y caracterización es totalmente dependiente de las técnicas analíticas, fundamentalmente las no destructivas, puestas a punto desde la Arqueometría para facilitar el estudio del material arqueológico. Actualmente contamos con escasos datos analíticos, que se reducen drásticamente si nos situamos en la Península ibérica y concentramos nuestro interés en las primeras etapas de su utilización, porque... nadie encuentra lo que no se busca.
Presentamos una recopilación de este tipo de datos mediante las técnicas analíticas XRF y PIXE para caracterizar dos grupos

EDXRF portable system used in the analysis of altars, sculptures and paintings from XVII and XVIII centuries in Brazil

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Freitas, R.P.; Calza, C.; Lopes, R.T.; Santos, R.O.

2011-01-01

Full text: The preservation of cultural heritage has acquired increasing interest in the last decades and many scientific techniques have been employed to analyze paintings, manuscripts, ceramics, glasses, statues, coins and metal artifacts in order to solve problems related to restoration, conservation, dating and attribution of artworks. There is also an increasing trend for non-destructive investigations since most of the samples are unique and precious objects of art and archaeology. X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) is the most widely used investigative technique in the field of archaeometry, due to a number of favorable analytical characteristics, such as multielemental and non-destructive analysis, high sensitivity and applicability to a wide range of samples. In this work, XRF was used to analyze altars, sculptures and paintings in the Saint Anthony Convent (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). The cornerstone of this convent was launched in 1608, by the Franciscan friars, and the construction of the church was finished in 1620. The Saint Anthony sculpture in the main altar is one of the few remaining pieces from the XVII century in Rio de Janeiro. The splendid Baroque carvings of the chapel, covered with integral gilding, in the national Portuguese style, dates from 1716 to 1719. The results obtained during the analyses have been used in the meticulous process of restoration, developed in the last two years, in order to recover the original splendour of this important piece of our cultural heritage. The analyses were carried out with an EDXRF portable system developed in the Nuclear Instrumentation Laboratory, consisting of an X-ray tube Oxford TF3005 with W anode, operating at 25 kV and 100 μA, and a Si-PIN XR-100CR detector from Amptek. In each sample were obtained several spectra, with an acquisition time of 300 s and a beam collimation of 1.5 and 2 mm. The spectra were analyzed using the software QXAS-AXIL from IAEA. The analysis of the golden carvings of the altars, in

Sobre límites y posibilidades de la investigación arqueológica de la arquitectura. De la estratigrafía a un modelo histórico

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Caballero Zoreda, Luis

2002-12-01

Full Text Available By the beginning of the 1990s, critical readings on late antiquity and early medieval Spanish architecture put into relief avowed contradictions in the generally accepted theories about its genesis and evolution.This crisis suggested me the need to propose a new explanatory model, according to which the architectural revolution brought about by Visigoth architecture would have taken place through the contribution of the new Islamic culture, way into the Middle Ages. This approach prompted me to apply myself to Building Archaeology in order to turn it to the resolution of the problem. A decade after that proposal I intend to present my experience on the usefulness and limitations of Building Archaeology. It has in fact proved useful in order to ensure a renewal of the research interest on this architecture and to obtain a new corpus of data on a more rigorous basis, but it has not been enough to solve the problem in a definite way since, as each and every historical problem, it remains partly open and subject to continued renewal. Using different examples, I will delve on the site/building relationship,wall stratigraphy (building sequence, stratigraphy and style, stratigraphy and intervention, stratigraphy and diagnose, typology and decoration, archaeometry, documentation and absolute chronology.A comienzos de los años -90, diversas lecturas críticas sobre la arquitectura tardoantigua y altomedieval hispánica evidenciaron supuestas contradicciones en la teoría consensuada sobre su génesis y evolución. Personalmente, esta crisis de comprensión me obligó a un esfuerzo para resolverla, lo que dio lugar a que planteara un modelo explicativo nuevo, según el cual la revolución arquitectónica provocada por la nueva arquitectura visigoda se habría dado, en realidad, gracias a la aportación de la nueva cultura islámica, traspasada la Antigüedad tardía y ya en plena Edad Media. Al margen de otras connotaciones, en las que aquí no voy a

PREFACE: EPS Euroconference XIX Nuclear Physics Divisional Conference: New Trends in Nuclear Physics Applications and Technology

Science.gov (United States)

2006-06-01

It was with great pleasure that the Department of Nuclear and Theoretical Physics of the University of Pavia and the INFN (Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare) Structure of Pavia organised the XIX Nuclear Physics Divisional Conference of the European Physical Society, which was held in the historical buildings of the University of Pavia from 5-9 September 2005. The Conference was devoted to the discussion of the most recent experimental and theoretical achievements in the field of Nuclear Physics applications, as well as of the latest developments in technological tools related to Nuclear Physics research. The University of Pavia has a long tradition in Physics and in Applied Physics, being the site where Alessandro Volta developed his "pila", the precursor of the modern battery. This is the place where the first experiments with electricity were conducted and where the term "capacitance" used for capacitors was invented. Today the University hosts a Triga Mark II nuclear reactor, which is used by the Departments of the University of Pavia and by other Universities and private companies as well. Moreover, Pavia is the site selected for the construction of the CNAO complex "Centro Nazionale di Adroterapia Oncologica" (National Centre for Oncological Hadrontherapy), planned for 2005-2008 which represents a unique facility in Italy and will be among the first complexes of this type in Europe. The Conference has gathered together experts in various fields from different countries and has been the occasion to review the present status and to discuss the new emerging trends in Nuclear Physics and its applications to multidisciplinary researches and the development of new technologies. The following topics were treated: Nuclear Techniques in Medicine and Life Sciences (Cancer Therapy, new Imaging and Diagnostics Tools, Radioisotope production, Radiation Protection and Dosimetry). Applications of Nuclear Techniques in Art, Archaeometry and other Interdisciplinary fields

Microstructure and microanalysis (SEM/EDX determination of glasses from Mallorca and Menorca caves

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Rincón, Jesús María

1993-12-01

Full Text Available In recent years a field of research of growing interest has been the application of physico-chemical characterization methods on modern materials to the study of ancient materials found by the archaeologists. This new field on Materials Science is known as Archaeometry. Many questions about the origin and manufacture of ancient glasses can be solved by using the same methods of analysis and microstructure characterization applied normally to special and advanced glasses. The islands of Mallorca and Menorca, located in the Balearic archipelago in the Mediterranean sea, has long been a crossing place of cultures. Transparent, opal and coloured glasses have been found in various archaeological investigations carried out in these islands. In order to know the composition and microstructure of some of these glasses, an archaeometric study has been carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD, transmission electron microscopy (TEM, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM/EDX, differential thermal analysis (DTA, and hot stage optical microscopy (HSM methods. The SEM/EDX average microanalysis results show that these glasses are deficient in sodium and highly enriched in Al₂O₃ and Fe₂O₃, their composition being in the range: 0.5-1.5 K₂O, 8-10 CaO, 6-8 Al₂O₃, 6-8 Fe₂O₃, 74-76 SiO₂ (wt%. Some of these glasses also contain high percentages of lead. Small quantities of TiO₂, CuO and SO₃ (0.5 % have also been detected. Surface decoration and blue colour are other features of these ancient glasses, the surface of which, depicted by SEM, is highly altered with flaked and corroded microstructures.

En los últimos años la aplicación de los métodos físicoquímicos de caracterización de materiales modernos al estudio de materiales antiguos es un campo de investigación de creciente interés para

VI European Conference on Neutron Scattering (ECNS2015)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2016-01-01

It was a great pleasure for the Materials Science Institute of Aragón (CSIC- University of Zaragoza) to host the VI European Conference on Neutron Scattering (ECNS) from the 30th of August until the 4th of September 2015. The meeting was held in Zaragoza, Spain, a prosperous and well communicated city founded by the Emperor Octavio Augustus over 2000 years ago. Zaragoza, a city where different cultures, Muslims, Jewish, and Christians have left their mark is famous for its landmarks such as the Basilica del Pilar, La Seo Cathedral and the Aljaferfa Palace as well as the local cuisine. The conference is organized every four years as a forum for the European neutron scattering community to discuss recent developments and advances in all branches of science in which neutron scattering is, or eventually could be used. In 2015 the conference gathered more than 650 participants from 31 different countries from around the globe including Japan, United States of America, Taiwan, Republic of Korea, India, Argentina, China and Australia. This volume assembles the proceedings of the ECNS 2015. The main topics in the conference were; Neutron Sources and Facilities, Neutron Instrumentation (Optics, Sample Environment, Detectors and Software), Fundamental Science, Chemistry of Materials, Magnetism, Superconductivity, Functional Materials, Glasses and Liquids, Thin Films and Interfaces, Soft Condensed Matter, Health and Life Sciences, Engineering applications, Cultural Heritage and Archaeometry. Jean-Marie Tarascon, J. Manuel Perez-Mato, Roberto Caciuffo, Paul Schofield, Peter Fierlinger, Helmut Schober and Frank Gabel presented plenary talks. In addition, 33 keynote talks and 222 oral presentations were given during the four parallel sessions as well as 325 poster presentations. The poster sessions, which were held during the lunch and coffee breaks, were well attended and participants had time to visit not only the posters but also the exhibition. The VI European Conference on