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Abstract
The suitability of microdigestion of historical varnishes combined with total reflection x‐ray fluorescence (TXRF) analysis for quantitative element determinations is presented. Microsamples of 50–100 µg varnish were digested in small volumes of acid and an internal standard element was added. Only a µL‐portion of the spiked solution was dried and analyzed. Elements like K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr, Ba, and Pb were detected simultaneously and their mass fractions were determined quantitatively. The sum of the detected elements in oil‐based varnishes as well as in spirit varnishes did not exceed 3% of the total mass. Examples are given and the results are discussed.
Acknowledgment
The author thanks the “Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF)” and the “Ministerium für Schule und Weiterbildung, Wissenschaft und Forschung (MSWWF) des Landes Nordrhein‐Westfalen” for financial support.