- Understand the composition and properties of Praseodymium Yellow pigment.
- Identify the spectral lines associated with praseodymium and related elements.
- Sample of Praseodymium Yellow from Pigments Checker – Modern Art.
- Sample of praseodymium.
- Introduction to Praseodymium Yellow Discuss the use of Praseodymium Yellow in art and its unique characteristics, such as durability and resistance. Highlight its application in pigments and its chemical composition as a zirconium silicate doped with praseodymium.
- Spectral Analysis Examine the spectral characteristics of praseodymium, focusing on the K alpha lines (Kα₁, Kα₂) and the absence of K beta lines due to system spectra range limitations. Introduce the L alpha, beta, and gamma lines for further analysis.
- Interpretation of Spectra Analyze the provided spectra to identify peaks associated with zirconium and the challenges in detecting praseodymium due to its low concentration in the pigment.
To reinforce the concepts discussed here, we also provide a video lesson that visually walks through the key points of this topic. Watching the video alongside the text can help you better understand and apply these ideas in practice.
The course XRF Spectroscopy for Art Examination introduces conservators, art historians, and scientists with interest in Art to the principles and practical applications of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy in the examination of artworks. The course starts with basic principles of XRF and gradually explores its role in identifying materials and methods used in the creation and conservation of art.
Course Objectives
- Understand the fundamentals of XRF spectroscopy and how it applies to the analysis of art.
- Learn the key features and limitations of XRF for examining art and archaeology.
- Gain skills in interpreting XRF spectra to identify specific elements in paint layers, inks and metals.
Scientific Art Examination – Resources:
Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) – USA
The British Museum – Scientific Research Department – UK
Scientific Research Department – The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA
C2RMF (Centre de Recherche et de Restauration des Musées de France) – France
Rijksmuseum – Science Department – Netherlands
