The Possibility of Spectroscopic Analysis of Model Samples of Modern Pigments

Abstract

The identification of the composition of the paint layers (binders, additives, and pigments) is essential for the work of conservators and can also be used in many cases to determine the date of creation of works of modern art. Spectroscopic methods, specifically FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, are most commonly used to analyse modern pigments. These two methods complement each other and together provide a comprehensive view of the composition of the paint layer. The abilities of both spectroscopic techniques to identify pigments in the paint layer were investigated on a set of 24 model samples of pigment, the white, and binder mixtures and then verified by an analysis of a real sample.