Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis of archeological metal artifacts from the Final Bronze Age

Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) is widely used in the study of archeological metal artifacts, heritage and art history, where the fragile nature of the objects requires the use of noninvasive techniques such as the EDXRF, which in addition, is fast and very affordable. An EDXRF analysis of copper-based artifacts from Late Bronze Age metal hoards from Central Portugal is presented. The EDXRF measurements were carried out by using an X-ray tube with a Mo anode and a commercial Si-PIN detector. The data acquisition was performed by keeping small distances between the X-ray window, the sample and the detector. Both patinated and polished areas were analyzed: the relative composition of the artifacts was inferred from the fluorescence spectra obtained. Copyright (C) 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.