Material Composition Analysis of a Painting - Measurement Report by NLIR
Material Composition Analysis of a Painting - Measurement Report by NLIR
This document reports on the material composition analysis of a painting by Danish artist Poul Kastrup using mid-infrared reflection spectroscopy. The analysis was conducted with NLIR's REFLECTION Measurement System, which includes the MIDWAVE Spectrometer, AURALIS Light Source, SAMPLER Accessory, and NLIzeR Software.
Technology Highlights
- Ultra-fast measurements providing results in seconds, suitable for time-sensitive fieldwork.
- Non-contact and non-destructive analysis, preserving delicate heritage artifacts.
- Compact and portable equipment, ideal for on-site diagnostics in museums, churches, and archaeological sites.
Results Summary
The mid-infrared absorption spectra were collected from five different points on the painting, covering wavelengths from 2.0 to 5.0 µm. Variations in absorption intensities and peak features indicate differences in material composition across the painting's surface.
Key Spectral Features
- Wavelength 2.0 – 2.5 µm: Indicates O–H, N–H, and C–H overtones, suggesting organic binders or hydrated materials.
- Wavelength 2.7 – 2.9 µm: O-H stretch, associated with moisture, clay, or proteinaceous material.
- Wavelength 3.3 – 3.5 µm: C-H stretch, indicating oils, waxes, or organic resins.
Interpretation of Results
The analysis reveals multiple spectral regions of interest:
- Point 2 shows lower absorption, likely due to an inert dry mineral.
- Points 1, 4, and 5 exhibit structured absorption, indicating binders or hydrated pigments.
- Point 3 has the highest and broadest absorption, suggesting a combination of organic binders and possibly hydrated material.
Conclusion
The study highlights the heterogeneity in the painting's material composition, potentially corresponding to different pigments, binders, or degradation products. The REFLECTION Measurement System proves effective for non-destructive analysis of heritage artifacts.
Contact Information
For further exploration of heritage science measurements, contact NLIR at [email protected] or +45 71 74 78 70.
Catalog excerpts
MEASUREMENT REPORT MATERIAL COMPOSITION ANALYSIS OF A PAINTING Heritage Science Study
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MID-Infrared Absorption Analysis of a Painting Mid-infrared reflection spectroscopy was performed on an early-mid 20th century painting by Danish artist Poul Kastrup. Spectra were collected at few points over the painting using NLIR's REFLECTION Measurement System, which consists of MIDWAVE Spectrometer, AURALIS Light Source, SAMPLER Accessory, and NLIzeR Software. • Ultra-fast measurements - get results in seconds, ideal for time-sensitive fieldwork • Non-contact, non-destructive - preserve delicate heritage artifacts while analyzing their composition • Compact and portable - perfect for on-site...
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Interpretation of the Results wavetengtn (pm) Key Observations The results show that there are multiple spectral regions of interest. Between 2.0 jm and 2.5 jm, the differences in spectra provide valuable insight into the O-H, N-H, and C-H overtone and combination bands. The spectra indicate that Point 2, with lower absorption has likely an inert dry mineral, Point 1, 4 and 5 show more structured absorption due to biners or hydrated pigments and Point 3 has highest and broadest absorption suggesting a combination of organic binders and possibly hydrated material. Prominent absorption bands around...
Open the catalog to page 3
Measurement Equipment REFLECTION Measurement System AURALIS Light Source MIDWAVE Spectrometer SAMPLER Accessory NLIzeR Software* *Comes free of charge with our MIDWAVE Spectrometer Would you like to explore your possibilities in Heritage Science measurements? With our experience in non-destructive optical testing of historical artifacts such as mummies and paintings, our dedicated team of optical experts is here to help investigate your measurement possibilities in the mid-infrared regime. www.nlir.com | [email protected] | +45 71 74 78 70 Page 4 out of 4
Open the catalog to page 4All NLIR catalogs and technical brochures
UPCONVERSION AS A LAB TOOL2 Pages
NLIR Product Catalogue4 Pages
SAMPLER Accessory Spec Sheet3 Pages
TOUCH Interface Spec Sheet3 Pages
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