Quantification by means of XRF – Illustrated on Cultural Heritage samples
The Potential of micro-XRF for Quantitative Analysis in Heritage Science
How to quantify something priceless? In this webinar Bruker Nano Analytics' experts present the potentials of micro-XRF as a technique for quantitative analysis in Heritage Science.
The relevance of quantification in Cultural Heritage analysis is often overestimated, and the implication and complexity of the task not fully considered. As discussed in our previous series Back to the Roots , quantitative, semi-quantitative and qualitative analysis are not different “qualities” of analysis but a valid approach that considers the sample as well as the analytical question. Many materials do not have a defined composition within the analytical volume of the technique, for example, paintings, polychrome sculptures and art on paper or parchment. In contrast, objects made of glass or metals, do have a more-or-less defined analytical compositional volume. Accordingly, quantitative results may contribute or directly help to answer research questions. The potentials and pitfalls of quantitative analysis are as diverse as the objects researchers deal with in this broad field. Sources of error may not only be related to the material analyzed but also the instrument or quantification algorithm used, the measurement conditions applied or even the physics itself.
In this webinar we present benefits and potential limitations for quantification of different materials related to Heritage Science such as glass, metals, and ceramics using specific examples. Surface effects such as corrosion or enrichment/ depletion of certain elements, sample heterogeneity and elemental sensitivity regarding both light elements measured at air as well as LOD of trace elements will be point of discussion. Furthermore, matrix effects, peak overlap, and diffraction peaks as important analytical artifacts that need to be considered during both data acquisition as well as evaluation. These analytical challenges require a well-thought approach to ensure meaningful results. The main intention of this overview on quantification is, thus, to illustrate the capabilities of the non-invasive technique and principal possibilities for the large variety of materials in Cultural Heritage science by using existing analytical instruments and routines.
Who Should Attend?
- Everyone interested in or using XRF and micro-XRF as a quantitative analysis technique not only in Heritage Science
- M4 TORNADO, M6 JETSTREAM, TRACER, ELIO and CRONO users
Speakers
Michele Gironda
Head of Global Segment Management, Bruker Nano Analytics
Dr. Roald Tagle
Global Manager Application Science, Bruker Nano Analytics
Mareike Gerken
Application Scientist, Bruker Nano Analytics
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