μXRF
μXRF mapping
μXRF imaging

Micro X-ray Fluorescence Imaging (µ-XRF) is a non-destructive chemical technique used to study the composition and distribution of inorganic chemical elements on single spots or small-scale details of artworks and archaeological artifacts. Based on the interaction between X-rays and matter, the technique utilizes the X-ray fluorescence generated when a sample is irradiated with an X-ray beam. Atoms within the sample, when excited, emit characteristic radiation that allows their chemical composition to be identified. Unlike traditional XRF analysis, which focuses on a single micrometric spot, µ-XRF can also enable the scanning of small areas, producing two-dimensional maps with spatial resolution typically lower than 70 µm. This capability is particularly useful for studying elemental distribution on paint layers, i.e. inorganic pigments, pentimenti, or conservation materials hidden of an artwork, offering insights into artistic or manufacturing techniques, creative processes, production methods and conservation history.

Micro x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (μxrf)

Non invasive

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