Elemental mapping of Portuguese ceramic pieces with a full-field XRF scanner based on a 2D-THCOBRA detector

In this work, we present a novel application of the full-field energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) imaging system based on a MicroPattern Gaseous Detector (2D-THCOBRA) in the cultural heritage field. The detector has an intrinsic imaging capability with spatial resolution of 400 mu m FWHM, and is energy sensitive, presenting an energy resolution of approximately 1 keV FWHM at 5.9keV. The full-field XRF scanner based on the 2D-THCOBRA detector allows mapping the distribution of elements in large area samples with high detection efficiency (75% at 5.9keV), being a very promising choice for elemental mapping analysis of large area cultural heritage samples. In this work, we have demonstrated the imaging capabilities of the full-field XRF scanner and used it to assess the restoration of a Portuguese faience piece.

Automated summary

This work demonstrates the novel application of the MicroPattern Gaseous Detector (2D-THCOBRA) in the cultural heritage field, showing its high spatial and energy resolution capabilities, making it a promising choice for elemental distribution analysis of large area cultural heritage samples.