|
“Argentinean prehistoric pigments' study by combined SEM/EDX and molecular spectroscopy”. Darchuk L, Tsybrii Z, Worobiec A, Vázquez C, Palacios OM, Stefaniak EA, Gatto Rotondo G, Sizov F, Van Grieken R, Spectrochimica acta: part A: molecular and biomolecular spectroscopy 75, 1398 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SAA.2010.01.006
Abstract: Composition of the prehistoric pigments (from Carriqueo rock shelter, Rio Negro province, Argentina) has been analysed by means of molecular spectroscopy (Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and micro-Raman) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled to an energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS). Red and yellow pigments were recognized as red and yellow ochre. The matrix of the pigments is composed of one or more substances. According to the matrix composition yellow and red pigments were also divided into two groupsi.e. those containing kaolinite or sulphates. Green pigment was detected as green earth, made up of celadonite as a chromophore.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SAA.2010.01.006
|
|
|
“Characterisation of Amazon Basin aerosols at the individual particle level by X-ray microanalytical techniques”. Worobiec A, Szalóki I, Osán J, Maenhaut W, Stefaniak EA, Van Grieken R, Atmospheric environment : an international journal 41, 9217 (2007). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2007.07.056
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2007.07.056
|
|
|
“Characterisation of concentrates of heavy mineral sands by micro-Raman spectrometry and CC-SEM/EDX with HCA”. Worobiec A, Stefaniak EA, Potgieter-Vermaak S, Sawlowicz Z, Spolnik Z, Van Grieken R, Applied geochemistry 22, 2078 (2007). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APGEOCHEM.2007.05.003
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.APGEOCHEM.2007.05.003
|
|
|
“Characterisation of individual atmospheric particles within the Royal Museum of the Wawel Castle in Cracow, Poland”. Worobiec A, Stefaniak EA, Kontozova V, Samek L, Karaszkiewicz P, van Meel K, Van Grieken R, e-Preservation Science 3, 63 (2006)
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
|
|
|
“Combined SEM/EDX and micro-Raman spectroscopy analysis of uranium minerals from a former uranium mine”. Stefaniak EA, Alsecz A, Frost R, Máthé, Z, Sajó, IE, Török S, Worobiec A, Van Grieken R, Journal of hazardous materials 168, 416 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2009.02.057
Abstract: Samples of the secondary uranium minerals collected in the abandoned uranium mine at Pecs (Hungary) were investigated by two micro-techniques: scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDX) and micro-Raman spectroscopy (MRS). They were applied to locate U-rich particles and identify the chemical form and oxidation state of the uranium compounds. The most abundant mineral was a K and/or Na uranyl sulphate (zippeite group). U(VI) was also present in the form showing intensive Raman scattering at 860 cm−1 which can be attributed to uranium trioxide. This research has shown the successful application of micro-Raman spectroscopy for the identification of uranyl mineral species on the level of individual particles.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2009.02.057
|
|
|
“Comparative assessment of air quality in two health resorts using carbon isotopes and palynological analyses”. Górka M, Jedrysek MO, Maj J, Worobiec A, Buczyńska A, Stefaniak E, Krata A, Van Grieken R, Zwozdziak A, Sówka I, Zwozdziak J, Lewicka-Szczebak D, Atmospheric environment 43, 682 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2008.09.056
Abstract: This paper describes results of applying the palynological and carbon isotopic analysis of the organic fraction of Total Suspended Particles (TSP) to discriminate distinct pollution sources and assess the anthropogenic impact for the investigated areas. The samples of atmospheric particles were collected in Czerniawa and Cieplice (two health resorts in Lower Silesia, SW Poland) twice a year in summer and winter season (from July 2006 to February 2008). The palynological spectra represent in the vast majority local plant communities without a noticeable contribution of long-transported plant particles. Palynological analysis revealed also differences in the specificity of the two sampling areas, i.e. the higher contribution of identified organic material in Czerniawa stands for more natural character of this site, but is also responsible for the higher allergic pressure when compared to Cieplice. The carbon isotopic composition of TSP varied seasonally (ä13C value from −27.09 in summer to −25.47 in winter). The increased ä13C value in winter (heating period) is most probably caused by uncontrolled contribution of coal soot. On the basis of isotopic mass balance the calculated contribution of anthropogenic organic particles in the atmosphere reached in winter season 72% in Czerniawa and 79% in Cieplice.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2008.09.056
|
|
|
“Composition of pigments on human bones found in excavations in Argentina studied with micro-Raman spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy”. Darchuk L, Stefaniak EA, Vázquez C, Palacios OM, Worobiec A, Van Grieken R, e-Preservation Science 6, 112 (2009)
Abstract: Results on analysis of prehistoric pigments from excavations and pigments on coloured child bones from North Patagonia, Argentina, are reported. To analyze their composition we used two micro-analytical techniques: micro- Raman spectrometry (MRS) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with X-ray micro-analysis (SEM/EDX). Most investigated excavated pigments show red or yellow ochres consistent with reddish or yellow minerals, such as á- and ã-goethite, haematite, erdite, haapalaite and jarosite. Raman spectra show also evidence of calcium oxalate monohydrate and calcite indicating lichen activity. Pigments covering human bones were identified as hematite and magnetite. This study allows us to infer that pigments found in excavation were employed for burial ceremonies, even though distances between excavated pigment archaeological site and buried remains are quite far, more than 50 km in a straight line.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
|
|
|
“Comprehensive microanalytical study of welding aerosols with x-ray and Raman based methods”. Worobiec A, Stefaniak EA, Kiro S, Oprya M, Bekshaev A, Spolnik Z, Potgieter-Vermaak SS, Ennan A, Van Grieken R, X-ray spectrometry 36, 328 (2007). http://doi.org/10.1002/XRS.979
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1002/XRS.979
|
|
|
“Determination of chemical composition of individual airborne particles by SEM/EDX and micro-Raman spectrometry : a review”. Stefaniak EA, Buczyńska A, Novakovic V, Kuduk R, Van Grieken R, Journal of physics : conference series 162, 012019 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/162/1/012019
Abstract: The strategies for sampling and analysis by SEM/EDX and micro-Raman spectrometry for individual airborne particles analysis as applied at the University of Antwerp (Belgium) by the MITAC group have been reviewed. Microbeam techniques provide detailed information concerning the origin, formation, transport, reactivity, transformation reactions and environmental impact of particulate matter. Moreover, some particles of certain chemical properties have been recognized as a threat for human health and cultural heritage objects. However, the small sizes of particles result in specific problems with respect to single particle analysis. Development of equipment and software for improvement of analysis and quantification are reported.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/162/1/012019
|
|
|
“Determination of fluorine in uranium oxyfluoride particles as an indicator of particle age”. Kips R, Pidduck AJ, Houlton MR, Leenaers A, Mace JD, Marie O, Pointurier F, Stefaniak EA, Taylor PDP, van den Berghe S, van Espen P, Van Grieken R, Wellum R, Spectrochimica acta: part B : atomic spectroscopy 64, 199 (2009). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SAB.2008.12.001
Abstract: As swipe samples from enrichment activities typically contain uranium particles with a detectable amount of fluorine, the question was raised whether the analysis of fluorine in particles could complement the information on the uranium isotope ratios. For this, uranium oxyfluoride particles were prepared from the controlled hydrolysis of uranium hexafluoride (UF6). The relative amount of fluorine was characterized by scanning electron microscopy combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDX), as well as ion-microprobe secondary ion mass spectrometry (IM-SIMS). Of particular interest was the assessment of the reduction of the amount of fluorine over time, and after exposure to UV-light and high temperatures. Micro-Raman spectrometry (MRS) was applied to look for differences in molecular structure between these various sample types. Both SEM-EDX and IM-SIMS showed a general reduction of the fluorine-to-uranium ratio after 12 years of storage. The exposure to UV-light and high temperatures was found to have accelerated the loss of fluorine. A distinct peak at 865 cm− 1 Raman shift was detected for the majority of particles analyzed by MRS. For the particles that were heat-treated, the Raman spectra were similar to the spectrum of U3O8. Although often large variations were observed between particles from the same sample, the three particle measurement techniques (IM-SIMS, SEM-EDX and MRS) showed some consistent trends. They therefore appear promising in terms of the ability to place bounds on particle age, as well as shedding light on the complex processes involved in UO2F2 particle ageing.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Chemometrics (Mitac 3)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SAB.2008.12.001
|
|
|
“Historical changes in air pollution in the tri-border region of Poland, Czech Republic and Germany”. Worobiec A, Zwozdziak A, Sówka I, Zwozdziak J, Stefaniak EA, Buczyńska A, Krata A, van Meel K, Van Grieken R, Górka M, Jedrysek M-O, Environment protection engineering 34, 81 (2008)
Abstract: In this study, we show the trends in the concentration Of SO2 and particulate matter (PM) in two health resorts, located in the tri-border region of Poland, Germany and Czech Republic. We analyze the annual time series and the seasonal variability of PM concentration for the months of July and February over the period of 1996-2007. Additionally, in July 2006, we measured the mean 24-hour concentration of PM and the content of heavy metals (by EDXRF analysis). We prove that nowadays air pollution in this region has diminished to a large extent as compared to the 90s of the last century. In Cieplice, the local influence is still evident; while Czerniawa is exposed to a periodical advection of polluted air from regional sources.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
|
|
|
“Infrared investigation of hard human teeth tissues exposed to various doses of ionizing radiation from the 1986 Chernobyl accident”. Darchuk LA, Zaverbna LV, Bebeshko VG, Worobiec A, Stefaniak EA, Van Grieken R, Spectroscopy 22, 105 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1155/2008/843612
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1155/2008/843612
|
|
|
“Interfaced SEM/EDX and micro-Raman spectrometry for characterisation of heterogeneous environmental particles: fundamental and practical challenges”. Worobiec A, Potgieter-Vermaak S, Brooker A, Darchuk L, Stefaniak E, Van Grieken R, Microchemical journal 94, 65 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2009.09.003
Abstract: The molecular character of atmospheric particulate matter is of prime importance when interpreting air pollution trends and its subsequent influence on environmental monitoring and preventative conservation. The known methods of estimating the molecular composition normally involve elemental analysis of particles (both as bulk and computer controlled analyses of single particles) with subsequent multivariate analyses to clusterise the elements in groups of elements that are closely related to each other. With this approach one can at best suggest associations. Evidently the application of molecular spectroscopy in addition to elemental concentration profiles would provide intimate information regarding the nature of the particles and consequently their fate. This paper gives an overview of research performed in our laboratory and describes the optimisation of experimental parameters to use scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray detection (SEM/EDX) or electron probe X-ray microanalysis (EPXMA) in parallel with micro-Raman Spectrometry (MRS) to investigate single environmental particles. The challenges associated with the two stand-alone techniques are revealed and consequently those posed with an interfaced approach are discussed. Preliminary results, of an initial investigation of the SEM/EDX interfaced with MRS to ultra-fine heterogeneous environmental particles, are given.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2009.09.003
|
|
|
“Investigation of inclusions trapped inside Libyan desert glass by Raman microscopy”. Swaenen M, Stefaniak EA, Frost R, Worobiec A, Van Grieken R, Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry 397, 2659 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1007/S00216-009-3351-2
Abstract: Several specimens of Libyan desert glass (LDG), an enigmatic natural glass from Egypt, were subjected to investigation by micro-Raman spectroscopy. The spectra of inclusions inside the LDG samples were successfully measured through the layers of glass and the mineral species were identified on this basis. The presence of cristobalite as typical for high-temperature melt products was confirmed, together with co-existing quartz. TiO2 was determined in two polymorphic species rutile and anatase. Micro-Raman spectroscopy proved also the presence of minerals unusual for high-temperature glasses such as anhydrite and aragonite.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1007/S00216-009-3351-2
|
|
|
“Microchemical investigation of bone derived from mice treated with strontium in different chemical forms using scanning electron microscopy and micro-Raman spectroscopy”. Jabłoński MB, Stefaniak EA, Darchuk L, Turzańska K, Gorzelak M, Kuduk R, Dorriné, W, Van Grieken R, Microchemical journal 108, 168 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2012.10.015
Abstract: We used SEM/EDX and micro-Raman spectroscopy to investigate the chemical changes (both on the level of elementary and molecular composition) of mice bones when strontium is incorporated in their microstructure after being administered in the form of two salts: chloride and ranelate. Strontium accumulated mainly in vicinity of bone edges, both cortical and close to bone marrow. The distribution of other elements comprising bone samples (Ca, P, Mg, K etc.) was also determined by energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The area adjacent to a cortical bone edge with accumulated strontium has presented modified Raman spectral profiles. Besides most of the Raman bands typical for both mineral (hydroxyapatite with carbonate substitution type B) and organic phases of a bone, we observed a Raman band at 811 cm− 1. It was detected regularly in the sample with high strontium concentration.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2012.10.015
|
|
|
“Molecular and elemental characterisation of mineral particles by means of parallel micro-Raman spectrometry and Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis”. Stefaniak EA, Worobiec A, Potgieter-Vermaak S, Alsecz A, Török S, Van Grieken R, Spectrochimica acta: part B : atomic spectroscopy 61, 824 (2006). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.SAB.2006.04.009
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.SAB.2006.04.009
|
|
|
“New insight into UO2F2 particulate structure by micro-Raman spectroscopy”. Stefaniak EA, Darchuk L, Sapundjiev D, Kips R, Aregbe Y, Van Grieken R, Journal of molecular structure 1040, 206 (2013). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MOLSTRUC.2013.02.012
Abstract: Uranyl fluoride particles produced via hydrolysis of uranium hexafluoride have been deposited on different substrates: polished graphite disks, silver foil, stainless steel and gold-coated silicon wafer, and measured with micro-Raman spectroscopy (MRS). All three metallic substrates enhanced the Raman signal delivered by UO2F2 in comparison to graphite. The fundamental stretching of the UO band appeared at 867 cm−1 in case of the graphite substrate, while in case of the others it was shifted to lower frequencies (down to 839 cm−1). All applied metallic substrates showed the expected effect of Raman signal enhancement; however the gold layer appeared to be most effective. Application of new substrates provides more information on the molecular structure of uranyl fluoride precipitation, which is interesting for nuclear safeguards and nuclear environmental analysis.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.MOLSTRUC.2013.02.012
|
|
|
“Recognition of uranium oxides in soil particulate matter by means of ì-Raman spectrometry”. Stefaniak EA, Sajó, I, Alsecz A, Worobiec A, Máthé, Z, Török S, Van Grieken R, Journal of nuclear materials 381, 278 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.JNUCMAT.2008.08.036
Abstract: Soil samples from an abandoned uranium mine have been investigated in order to determine the molecular phases of uranium compounds. The experiments were carried out with soil particulate matter, collected randomly from the area of the formerly exploited ore. To select the particles rich with uranium, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray attachment (SEM/EDX) was applied first. Afterwards, the particles were relocated and measured by l-Raman spectrometry (MRS). Residues of the main deposit, uraninite UO2, were detected, along with its alteration products. In terms of Raman scattering properties, uranium oxides are quite sensitive to the laser beam wavelength, which results in very specific features of their Raman spectra. In this paper the Raman spectra of uranium oxides of different origin and oxidation states, measured with 514 and 785 nm lasers, are also presented
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.JNUCMAT.2008.08.036
|
|
|
“A seasonal study of atmospheric conditions influenced by the intensive tourist flow in the Royal Museum of Wawel Castle in Cracow, Poland”. Worobiec A, Samek L, Karaszkiewicz P, Kontozova-Deutsch V, Stefaniak EA, van Meel K, Krata A, Bencs L, Van Grieken R, Microchemical journal 90, 99 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.MICROC.2008.04.005
Abstract: Increasingmass tourismcan generate importantmicroclimatic perturbations and also elevate indoor pollution by the transport of fine particulatematter. The purpose of this researchwas to study the indoor air conditions in the RoyalMuseum ofWawel Castle in Cracow, Poland, displaying amongst other valuable works of art also a unique collection of Flemish tapestries. The investigation involved in the determination of transport and deposition of particulate matter brought in by visitors. The microclimate inside the exhibition rooms was also monitored. Samples of suspended particulateswere collected inside and outside themuseuminwinterand summer2006.On days with intensive tourist visits the concentration of total suspended particulates was significantly higher (i.e., 130 µg/m3 inwinter and 49 µg/m3 in summer) than on those days without tourists (i.e., 73 µg/m3 and 22 µg/m3 in winter and summer, respectively). The concentrations of all investigated elementswere also considerably higher during the tourist flow. This was especially valid for soil dust associated elements (Si, K, Ca, Al, and Ti), with considerably higher levels in summer than winter. This could be linked with much more frequent tourist activity in the summer period. Also, the concentration of Clwasmuch higher inwinter than summer, due to the use of deicing salts on the roads and pavements.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1016/J.MICROC.2008.04.005
|
|
|
“Study of the winter and summer changes of the air composition in the church of Szalowa, Poland, related to conservation”. Worobiec A, Samek L, Spolnik Z, Kontozova V, Stefaniak E, Van Grieken R, Microchimica acta 156, 253 (2006). http://doi.org/10.1007/S00604-006-0619-5
Abstract: The St. Michael Archangel's Church in Szalowa, Poland, was selected for closer investigation with respect to the indoor/outdoor air exchange and its influence on the air quality and work arts preservation. Chemical composition, size and abundance of particulate matter and concentration of gases NO2, SO2, O-3 inside and outside the church were determined. To study seasonal variation of the weather condition (temperature, inversion level, wind direction) and the influence of seasonal sources of the air pollution (like heating of the nearby houses), samples were collected in winter and summer time. It was stated that suspended particulate matter inside the wooden church has in general an outdoor source. Several groups of particles were distinguished such as the organic ones, soil dust, nitrates and sulphates. In case of organic and soil dust particles, the concentration inside was higher than outside. From the results, in comparison to literature data, one can conclude that accumulation of particulate suspended matter in the church is more intense than in other types of buildings. Gaseous pollutants were detected but their concentration was negligible.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1007/S00604-006-0619-5
|
|
|
“SnIV-containing layered double hydroxides as precursors for nano-sized ZnO/SnO2 photocatalysts”. Seftel EM, Popovici E, Mertens M, Stefaniak EA, Van Grieken R, Cool P, Vansant EF, Applied catalysis : B : environmental 84, 699 (2008). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.APCATB.2008.06.006
Abstract: Sn4+-containing LDH was prepared using the co-precipitation method at constant pH, and characterized using X-ray diffraction, UVvis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and TG/DTG methods. The obtained product was further exposed to different thermal treatments in order to obtain nano-sized coupled ZnO/SnO2 systems with enhanced photocatalytic performances than the ones obtained by mixing the two semiconductor oxides. The formation of a well-defined ZnO/SnO2 system and the crystallite size, fully investigated using XRD, micro-Raman scattering and UVvis DR techniques, were found to be influenced by the nature of the precursors and the calcination temperature. The photocatalytic activity of the ZnO/SnO2 systems, evaluated for the photodegradation of methyl orange (MO) dye, was studied as a function of the initial pH, catalyst loading and the calcination temperature. The metal dispersion supplied by layered structures proved to be an advantage when preparing coupled ZnO/SnO2 systems, the photocatalytic activity being 2.3 times higher comparing with the physical mixtures performances. The maximum photocatalytic activity of the coupled ZnO/SnO2 system having a layered precursor was observed when using neutral pH, at a catalyst loading of 1 g/L calcined at 600 °C for 4 h.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; Laboratory of adsorption and catalysis (LADCA); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
DOI: 10.1016/J.APCATB.2008.06.006
|
|
|
“Transport and deposition of airborne pollutants in exhibition areas located in historical buildings: study in Wawel Castle Museum in Cracow, Poland”. Worobiec A, Samek J, Krata A, van Meel K, Krupińska B, Stefaniak EA, Karaszkiewicz P, Van Grieken R, Journal of cultural heritage 11, 354 (2010). http://doi.org/10.1016/J.CULHER.2009.11.009
Abstract: Historical buildings and castles that have been turned nowadays into museums, as an exhibition area for precious cultural heritage (CH) items, need more attention since they are CH objects by themselves. Moreover, the preservation techniques require often, significant interventions; however such changes are not always possible or are very limited. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of outdoor air pollution on the composition of particulate matter and gases inside the museum of Wawel Castle in Cracow, Poland. During this study a combination of micro and trace analysis techniques were applied, including energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). An intensive transport of air pollutants coupled with accumulation of the particles inside the museum was noticed (considerably higher in winter than summer). A high content of carbon and organic matter agglomerated with inorganic particles was determined. Those particles are of special concern because of their adhesive properties and reactivity. It was also noted that the conditions inside the museum favour the reaction of the particles with gaseous pollutants. It was especially the case for nitrate particles.
Keywords: A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
DOI: 10.1016/J.CULHER.2009.11.009
|
|
|
“Compositional correlation between pigments found in excavations and on human bones investigated with micro-raman spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy”. Vázquez C, Darchuk L, Stefaniak EA, Van Grieken R, Palacios OR page 13 (2011).
Keywords: H2 Book chapter; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
|
|
|
“Integration of analysis techniques of different scales using X ray induced and electron induced X ray spectrometry for applications in preventive conservation and environmental monitoring”. Van Grieken R, Darchuk L, Kontozova V, Potgieter-Vermaak S, van Meel K, Stefaniak E, Worobiec A page 53 (2011).
Abstract: In the past years, and also within the framework of this CRP, we have used a combination of several nuclear and non-nuclear techniques in fundamental research and especially in various applications. Most work has been done with energy-dispersive X ray fluorescence in combination with electron probe X ray microanalysis, but several other more common analysis techniques have been used as well. The applications have included mostly preventive conservation (e.g. characterisation of damaging atmospheric particles in many museums) and environmental monitoring (e.g. for atmospheric particles in relation to their health effects in outdoor and especially indoor environments). Fundamental aspects have been in the optimising of interfaced electron microprobe and Raman microprobe analysis and the evaluation of the potential of such an instrument for atmospheric aerosols; quite a few unexpected and unpredicted problems have appeared in the latter study.
Keywords: H2 Book chapter; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP)
|
|
|
“Application of combined SEM/EDX and μ-Raman approaches for the chemical and structural characterisation of fine particulates”. de Maeyer-Worobiec A, Stefaniak EA, Brooker A, Van Grieken R, (2007)
Keywords: P3 Proceeding; Laboratory Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics (LEMP); AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
|
|