Multi-analytical study of artist felt-tip pen inks

Silvia Garrappa, Giulia Germinario, Inez Dorothé van der Werf, Antonio Mirabile, Luigia Sabbatini
Abstract:
A multi-analytical study on the composition of commercial felt-tip pens commonly used by contemporary artists was carried out. The inks were investigated by the use of complementary analytical techniques, such as µ-Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results provided data for the identification of binders, pigments, solvents, and additives. Various synthetic pigments were recognised, such as PV23 and blue phthalocyanines. The binder seems to be mainly based on a styrene-acrylic copolymer in combination with polyamide. In addition, solvents and additives could be efficiently identified. This study illustrates a methodology based on the use of an integrated analytical approach for the characterisation of commercial ink-based artistic media.
Download:
IMEKO-TC4-ARCHAEO-2016-27.pdf
DOI:
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Event details
IMEKO TC:
TC4
Event name:
MetroArchaeo 2016
Title:

International Conference on Metrology for Archaeology and Cultural heritage (TC4)

Place:
Torino, ITALY
Time:
19 October 2016 - 21 October 2016