This lesson explores nickel-brass, a modern alloy widely used in contemporary coinage, such as the UK one-pound coin and the outer ring of the one-euro coin. Students will examine the composition and properties of this alloy through XRF spectroscopy, focusing on how the addition of nickel modifies the characteristics of traditional brass.
Objectives
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Identify the composition and structure of nickel-brass alloys.
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Understand how alloying elements such as nickel and zinc influence copper-based alloys.
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Interpret XRF spectra to recognize the elemental peaks corresponding to copper, zinc, and nickel in coin samples.
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Compare the XRF results of nickel-brass coins with those of other copper alloys such as brass and Nordic gold.
Materials
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Sample coins: UK one-pound coin, one-euro coin (outer ring)
Lesson Plan
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Introduce the family of copper-based alloys, highlighting brass and its variants.
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Present nickel-brass as a specific alloy containing approximately 75% copper, 20% zinc, and 5% nickel.
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Compare spectra from different alloys to illustrate compositional variations and their visual effects on the metal’s color and properties.
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.
