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Raman scattering or fluorescence emission? Raman spectroscopy study on lime-based building and conservation materials
Zofia Kaszowska1, Kamilla Malek2, Emilia Staniszewska-Slezak2
1Faculty of Conservation and Restoration of Works of Art, Jan Matejko Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow, 27-29 Lea Street, 30-052 Krakow, Poland.
Summary
Raman spectroscopy using 1064nm lasers can identify historical lime binders, but strong fluorescence may mask true signals. Caution is advised when interpreting these near-infrared Raman spectra for conservation materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemistry
- Archaeometry
Background:
- Lime binders are crucial historical building and conservation materials.
- Raman spectroscopy is a valuable tool for material characterization.
- Understanding spectral profiles is key for accurate material identification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Raman spectra of lime binders using 1064nm and 532nm lasers.
- To differentiate between fluorescence and true Raman scattering in lime binders.
- To analyze the effect of lime phase transformations on spectral profiles.
Main Methods:
- Raman spectroscopy with 1064nm and 532nm laser excitation.
- Analysis of calcium carbonate and calcium oxide phases.
- Examination of carbonated limewashes and lime binders from historical plasters.
- Near-infrared (NIR) Raman micro-mapping of plaster cross-sections.
Main Results:
- Distinct spectral bands were observed with 1064nm excitation, attributed to fluorescence.
- True Raman scattering was observed with 532nm excitation.
- Spectral profiles varied with different lime phases (calcium carbonate, calcium oxide).
- NIR-Raman micro-mapping revealed spatial distribution of materials and fluorescent species in 15th-century plaster.
Conclusions:
- Raman spectroscopy is effective for identifying lime-based building and conservation materials.
- Careful interpretation is necessary for spectra acquired with 1064nm excitation due to potential fluorescence interference.
- The study provides insights into spectral characteristics of various lime phases and historical samples.
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