First results on the use of a EDXRF scanner for 3D imaging of paintings

Abstract

A 3D map of chemical elements distribution from energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) analysis would be a perfect conclusion in a detailed study of any type of artifact. This map can be easily achieved by using synchrotron light as source of radiation, and microoptics both at the source and at the detector. In such a manner a micro-voxel is irradiated and detected, which can be at any depth with respect to the surface of the artifact. This method is effective but needs a high-intensity X-ray source; therefore, its use in archaeometry is limited. An alternative method is proposed in the present paper, which uses a portable EDXRF-device to measure the altered Ka/Kβ or La/Lβ-ratios, which allow to locate the chemical elements. Several examples are described.