A novel approach for micro FTIR reflection absorption analysis of artworks' surface

Non invasive reflection FTIR measurements provide valuable information about the chemical composition and degradation processes taking place at the surface of works of art. However, band assignments and the identification of components can often be complicated by the fact that the IR reflection response of artworks' surface is rather complex. In order to overcome this problem, a novel approach of mu-transflection analysis of artworks' surface is proposed. The obtained transflection spectra are very similar to the transmission ones, offering an easier interpretation. Although micro sampling is required, the sample removal leaves barely visible traces. In addition to the identification of the components present at the surface of the work of art, the technique can also be applied for monitoring of the chemical cleaning. Some examples of the identification of the surface of a Baroque easel painting are presented.