Analytical identification of historical writing inks - A new methodological approach

Abstract

A novel methodological approach has been developed for the qualitative determination of the nature of historic writing inks. The identification of unknown historic writing ink was performed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), UV, and visible spectroscopies and capillary electrophoresis. The IR spectra of all samples were recorded using two different techniques (KBr pellet and ZnSe cell). The KBr method was used for the characterization of ink samples evaporated to dryness, while ZnSe cell techniques were used for the analysis of ink aqueous solutions or suspensions. It was demonstrated that the KBr method could be used for the determination of the nature of the historic writing ink sample; however, the application of ZnSe cell technique for the identification of specific features was problematic. Characterization by UV and visible spectroscopies and capillary electrophoresis also revealed the characteristic features in the ink samples, providing a possibility of determining the identity of historic writing ink regarding its chemical composition. (See also AATA 41-1652.) Author Abstract; Cecily Grzywacz