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The widespread use of plastics has revolutionized modern life, but also led to environmental pollution. Although microplastics (MPs) have been detected in various environments, their presence in the atmosphere, particularly in Brazil, is poorly studied. This research investigated atmospheric MP concentrations at Alvaro Guião School in São Carlos, Brazil, from 2021 to 2022. Outdoor MP concentrations ranged from the limit of detection (LOD) to 168.03 items m−2 day−1, and indoor concentrations ranged from LOD to 60.16 items m−2 day−1. Predominantly, these MPs were fragments, even in the indoor environment, suggesting abundant sources, such as resuspension. Seasonal variations were not observed for outdoor fragments and fibers, nor for indoor fragments. However, indoor fiber concentrations were higher during the dry season (p > 0.05), likely due to winter clothing and reduced ventilation. Fragment sizes were mainly <60 μm, while fibers ranged from <60 μm to 3000–5000 μm. Polyester was the primary MP component (83–100% outdoors and 29–100% indoors), followed by ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA, 0–17% outdoors and 0–57% indoors), common in synthetic clothing and school supplies, respectively. Other plastics, found in packaging and bottles, like polyethylene (0–14%) and polyethylene terephthalate (0–6%), were also identified indoors. This study not only enhances the current understanding, but also pioneers analyses within a school environment. Despite being a work in progress, this study has already shown the presence of plastic particles in environments where children, one of the most susceptible groups to air pollution, spend a significant portion of their time. Furthermore, it can assist in developing an assessment of acceptable levels and guidelines. [Display omitted] • Atmospheric microplastic concentrations ranged from LOD to 168.03 items m−2 day−1. • Indoor fiber levels higher in dry season due to winter clothing and reduced ventilation. • School supplies and synthetic clothing were key sources of microplastics in the area. • Polyester and EVA were the most abundant polymers in these school's collected samples. • Polymer composition reflects the site profile: a large school in a high-traffic area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emission of microfibers (MFs) into all environmental matrices, including biota, is a global concern, but appropriate methodologies aimed at biomonitoring these pollutants are still in an exploratory stage. In this work a new method is presented for the extraction of airborne anthropogenic microfibers (MFs) from the leaves of Pittosporum tobira. The method is a sequential extraction consisting of tape tearing followed by water floating, ethanol extraction, and wet peroxidation, which considered at first outermost MFs, weakly adhering to leaf surface, and deeper MFs partly embedded in waxy cuticle layer. Tape tearing removed the highest fraction of MFs (about 75%), followed by water washing, ethanol and peroxidation. The constant ratio between the MFs collected in the successive extraction steps indicated that the protocol proposed is reliable and reproducible. Moreover, based on the tape tearing step, MFs number was significantly higher on the upper surface of the leaves, whereas MFs were significantly longer on the lower surface. A "reverse" extraction protocol in which tape tearing followed three water-washings demonstrated that a noticeable fraction of MFs still adhered to the leaf after water floating. SEM observation of the leaf surface highlighted the structural changes occurring during the extraction, with leaf surface becoming clearer and smoother at each step. Raman spectroscopy highlighted the presence of different kind of anthropogenic MFs, with microplastics representing 50%, and polyethylene terephthalate 39% of total MFs. Due to reproducible results and easy handling of the leaves, we encourage the use of P. tobira as a biomonitor of airborne MFs and suggest that a simplified extraction method based on tape tearing alone could be a fast and useful alternative to be adopted in biomonitoring protocols. [Display omitted] • Airborne microfibers were extracted in P. tobira leaf by tape, water, ethanol and H 2 O 2. • Tape tearing extracted 75% MFs followed by water (15%), ethanol and H 2 O 2. • In all leaf samples a constant proportion of MFs was found at each extraction step. • SEM observation highlighted the effects of the extraction on leaf surface architecture. • Raman microspectroscopy identified a 50% of MFs as microplastics, mainly PET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work an extensive characterization over XeCl multishot laser irradiation was performed at different energy densities and with different thicknesses of graphitic coating superimposed on P and Al implanted 4H–SiC epitaxial layers. It was noted that at 0.6 J/cm2 the 180 nm coating provides a smooth surface unlike lower thicknesses or uncoated treatments. The μ-Raman investigation showed the crystalline quality as a function of the energy density. Through Medium Angle Annular Dark Field-Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (MAADF-STEM) and High Angle Annular Dark Field (HAADF)-STEM investigations, the absence of extended defects and the presence of regions with higher density of carbon interstitials (C i) was revealed. Circular Transfer Length Method (CTLM) measurements demonstrated how irradiation at 0.9 J/cm2 succeeded to reach values of (7.28 ± 1.15) × 102 Ω/sq, lower than the findings achieved with furnace treatment at 1650 °C. However, electrical characterization carried out through μ-Raman investigation over the Folded Transverse Acoustic (FTA) modes showed consistent activation of the order of 7 × 1019 cm−3 at 0.6 J/cm2 while exhibited CTLM extracted sheet resistance of (3.17 ± 0.06) × 104 Ω/sq. Therefore, this work highlights the contrast between fast processes as the accommodation and ionization of dopant atoms in substitutional positions and slow processes such as the recovery of ion implantation damage. By offering faster processing rates, lower thermal budgets, and high spatial control over the annealing process, laser annealing on 4H–SiC as a post-implantation thermal treatment approach presents several advantages over conventional annealing methods. This study marks a significant progress in comprehending and improving the effectiveness of laser annealing on 4H–SiC. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Microplastics were found in coastal waters and in fish gastrointestinal tract from the Tyrrhenian Sea. • Microplastics appeared in fragments or in filamentous shapes, in water and in fish respectively. • Microplastics have been characterized by FT-IR and Raman spectroscopies. Abstract In this work it is reported for the first time the characterization of microplastics from sea water samples and in two congener species of seabreams: Pagellus erythrinus and P. bogaraveo, Mediterranean fish species of great commercial importance. An experimental survey was conducted on May–June 2017 in the southernmost part of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Microplastics found in the sea water and in the grastrointestinal tract of two teleosts were characterized by Raman and IR spectroscopies. Microplastics found in sea water samples appeared in the form of fragments made of plastics of low and high density (PVC and LPDE). All the microplastics found in fish belonged to Nylon 66, typical fibers used in industry and in fisheries. Our findings highlighted the importance of further studies along the food web chain for a better understanding of the diffusion and possible consequences of this terrible threat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Saint Demetrius of Stomion is a historical monastery placed in the geographical area of Larissa town, Greece, with a remarkable presence from its founding until nowadays. The monastery's present catholicon (main church) has been dated in the 16th century and its surviving wall paintings were constructed in 1758. In addition to the characterization of the materials applied, the purpose of this study is to determine the existence of a sole pictorial phase, that of the mid-18th century, or the occurrence of overpaintings. Additionally, the present study aims to begin the establishment of the documentation of materials and techniques of the late post-Byzantine iconographic guilds, which acted in Central and Northern Greece. The collected samples were analyzed by means of microscopic, spectroscopic and thermogravimetric methods. The use of fresco technique is implied by the major participation of calcium carbonate in all of the painting layers, its main contribution in the plaster layers and the microstratigraphic analysis of the samples' cross-sections, while the scarce and local presence of a proteinaceous material implies the limited use of egg-tempera technique for the highlights. The pigment analysis shows that mostly traditional pigments were used, including cinnabar, ferrous pigments (ochre, sienna, umber), minium, Naples yellow, massicot/litharge, green earth (celadonite), malachite, carbon and bone black, calcite, kaolinite and lead white. The absence of modern pigments, the consistency of all samples regarding microstratigraphy and applied materials, and the lack of the extensive use of an organic medium, strongly suggest the lack of overpaintings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The aim of this research was to characterize ten Provisini , one of the most common silver coins in the Middle Age, dating back to the 13th century A.D. These coins are composed by Ag-Cu alloy and were coined in the Roman mint. A non-destructive, micro-destructive and multi-analytical approach was used, aiming to preserve the surfaces of the coins. The results of XRD and micro-Raman spectroscopy allow defining the alloy composition and the mineralogical nature of the alteration products (e.g. cuprite, tenorite, chlorargyrite, stromeyerite). X-ray maps provided information on major elements distribution on the surface. Finally, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and Voltammetry of Immobilized Micro-Particles (VIMP) permitted to reconstruct the possible scheme of the multi-layering of the patina on the coins. Then, the conservation status was monitored. Highlights • Provisini are Ag-Cu coins most diffused in Middle Ages. • Two different layers occur and appear inhomogeneous. • The crack pattern is caused by metallurgical processing. • The superficial treatments of tosatura and imbiancatura were applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • The two K-Ca-Si glass compositions show different alteration behaviour. • Glass structure plays a dominant role in early stages under similar ageing conditions. • The Pb2+ and Ca2+ content may relate with more reactive structural arrangements. • Preservation state of extant pieces agrees with the replica's early stages. Abstract Several K-Ca-Si glass compositions typical of Central-European glassworks are susceptible to damage beyond recall, even in mild museum conservative conditions. In order to provide a comprehensive picture of the deterioration process, replica samples were produced and exposed to four different museum-like environments. The corrosion experiment was followed by the use of ToF-SIMS, μ -Raman and μ -FTIR, performing a systematic compositional and structural study for the early stages (one year) of surface alteration. This work demonstrates the dominant role of Pb2+ and Ca2+ content for the inferable existence of connected conduction pathways, with strong implications on the surface's hydration, alkali-diffusion and hydrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the evolution of the surface of a highly alloyed stainless steel (Sanicro 28) upon immersion in aqueous phosphoric acid solutions. For this purpose, both short- (few hours) and long-term immersion (several days) were carried out. A detailed analysis of XPS spectra allowed a distinction to be made between oxygen originating from the organic adlayer (adventitious contamination), the passive oxide layer, and adsorbed phosphate species. By estimating the fraction of oxygen due to phosphate species ( O ph ), it was shown that the O ph / P molar concentration ratio was ranging from about 2 to 3. This suggests the presence of a polyphosphate layer at the stainless steel surface, as also supported by Raman analysis, which influence the electrochemical behavior of SS in the acidic media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt blue is a famous pigment in human history. In the past decade it is widely reported that the cobalt aluminate has been detected in ancient ceramics as blue colorant in glaze, yet the acquired Raman spectra are incredibly different from that of synthesised references, necessitating a reassessment of such contradictory scenario with more accurate analytic strategies. In this study, micro-Raman spectroscopy (MRS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in association with energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) were performed on under-glaze cobalt pigments from one submerged blue and white porcelain shard dated from Wanli reign (1573–1620 CE) of Ming dynasty (1365–1644 CE) excavated at Nan'ao I shipwreck off the southern coast of China. The micro-structural inspection reveals that the pigment particles have characteristics of small account, tiny size, heterogeneously distribution, and more importantly, been completely enwrapped by well-developed anorthite crystals in the glaze, indicating that the signals recorded in previous publications are probably not from cobalt pigments themselves but from outside thickset anorthite shell. The further spectromicroscopic analyses confirm this presumption when the accurate spectra of cobalt aluminate pigment and surrounding anorthite were obtained separately with precise optical positioning. Accordingly, we reassess and clarify the previous Raman studies dedicated to cobalt blue pigment in ancient ceramics, e.g. cobalt blue in celadon glaze, and in turn demonstrate the superiority and necessity of coupling spectroscopic analysis with corresponding structure observation, especially in the characterization of pigments from complicated physico-chemical environment like antiquities. Thus, this study promotes a better understanding of Raman spectroscopy study of cobalt blue pigments in art and archaeology field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) have been found in marine systems more frequently. We aim to analyze the MPs abundances, distribution, and characteristics in the intertidal sediments along the Oman Sea. Samples were collected from 7 locations with three replicates. Density separation was used to extract MPs, which were then visually counted and categorized based on their size, shape, and color. MPs abundance ranged between 219.6 ± 38.3 particles.kg−1dw and 617.3 ± 99.9 particles.kg−1dw with a mean abundance of 315.4 ± 24.4 particles.kg−1 dw. Fragments and fibers were the dominant shapes. Red and blue colors were observed in 61.6 % of the collected MPs. In addition, 100–500 μm size range of MPs were more abundant. Micro-Raman spectroscopy analysis revealed polypropylene was the major polymer constituent. The present study revealed the widespread occurrence of MPs as anthropogenic pollutants throughout the Oman Sea and highlighted the urgent need for regulations and policies to reduce the entry of this material into marine environments. [Display omitted] • Baseline information of MP abundance in the intertidal sediments along the Oman Sea was documented for the first time. • Microplastics were ubiquitous in the surface intertidal sediments along the Oman Sea. • Fragments and fibers were the most abundance shapes of microplastics. • Polypropylene was the major polymer constituent in the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New catalytic systems are still in development to meet the challenge of regulations concerning the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This is because such compounds have a significant impact on air quality and some of them are toxic to the environment and human beings. The catalytic combustion process of VOCs over non-noble metal catalysts is of great interest to researchers. The high conversion parameters and cost effective preparation makes them a valuable alternative to monoliths and noble metal catalysts. In this study, the cobalt catalyst was prepared by non-equilibrium plasma deposition of organic precursor on calcined kanthal steel. Thus prepared, cobalt oxide based microstructural short-channel reactors were tested for n -nonane combustion and the catalyst surfaces were examined by in situ μ-Raman spectroscopy and in situ infrared spectroscopy. The spectra collected at various temperatures were used in generalised two-dimensional correlation analysis to establish the sequential order of spectral intensity changes and correlate the simultaneous changes in bands selectively coupled by different interaction mechanisms. The 2D synchronous and asynchronous contour maps were proved to be a valuable extension to the standard analysis of the temperature dependent 1D spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gadolinium implanted cerium oxide (Gd-CeO 2 ) nanocomposites is an important candidate which have unique hexagonal structure and high K- dielectric constant. Gd-CeO 2 nanoparticles were synthesized using hydrothermal method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that the peaks are consistent with pure phase cubic structure the XRD pattern also confirmed crystallinity and phase purity of the sample. Nanocrystals sizes were found to be up to 25 nm as revealed by XRD and SEM. It is suggested that Gd gives an affirmative effect on the ion influence behavior of Gd-CeO 2 . XRD patterns showed formation of new phases and SEM micrographs revealed hexagonal structure. Photoluminescence measurement (PL) reveals the systematic shift of the emission band towards lower wavelength thereby ascertaining the quantum confinement effect (QCE). The PL spectrum has wider broad peak ranging from 390 nm to 770 nm and a sharp one centered on at 451.30 nm which is in tune with Gd ions. In the Raman spectra showed intense band observed between 460 cm −1 and 470 cm −1 which is attributed to oxygen ions into CeO 2 . Room temperature ferromagnetism was observed in un-doped and Gd implanted and annealed CeO 2 nanocrystals. In the recent studies, ceria based materials have been considered as one of the most promising electrolytes for reduced temperature SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) system due to their high ionic conductivities allowing its use in stainless steel supported fuel cells. CeO 2 having an optical bandgap 3.3 eV and n-type carrier density which make it a promising candidate for various technological application such as buffer layer on silicon on insulator devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finishes applied on stuccoworks deserves in-depth analytical investigations. A complete chemical and morphological survey is very useful in reconstructing the artist's technique, the history of the artworks through the sequence of the applied layers, and is needed as a basis for any conservation approach. Microscopic observations, both optical and electronic (SEM), and spectroscopic analyses (μRaman, μFTIR and EDS) of gilded and polychrome finishes on plaster relieves, were carried out on 17 samples from a celebrated neoclassical hall in the Royal Palace of Milan ( Hall of Caryatids ). The original decorative pattern had been damaged during a bomb-induced fire in the Second World War. Most of the surfaces have been fatally compromised and blackened by the effects of the fire. The survey presented here analysed the materials constituting the stucco surfaces and the damage induced by the fire. Green pigments were individuated and mapped, although no green surfaces were visible to the naked eye. It was therefore possible to reconstruct a decorative pattern painted in green, gold and white, similar to traditions of decoration in Austria and southern Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study illustrates the analytical characterization of 12 academic nude paintings by Veloso Salgado, made between 1883 and 1893. The study was done with in situ methods (infrared reflectography and EDXRF) and benchtop equipment (Raman and FTIR microscopes and SEM-EDS). Infrared reflectography revealed underdrawings, painting style, execution method and retouched/restored areas. Analytical techniques allowed the identification of gypsum, lead white, barium white, zinc white, yellow ochre, chrome yellow, zinc yellow, vermilion, synthetic ultramarine blue, cerulean blue, Prussian blue, viridian, green earth, Paris green, red ochre, raw umber and lamp black. These results provide valuable information on Salgado’s palette and his artistic production technique and allow the distinction between palettes used in Lisbon and Paris and consequently, technical interchanges between both Academies. Finally, this study intends to start a systematic analytical study of the Faculty of Fine Arts’ collection, allowing the characterization of many other authors and their influences for the development of painting methodology in this Academy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study outlines the chemical characterisation of a large number of commercial spray paints as used in street art, graffiti vandalism and for decoration purposes. The analyses were focused on the identification of the synthetic binding media, pigments and additives such as plasticisers and fillers, providing a database as well as a methodology which could remarkably help investigations in a broad panorama of case studies, ranging from forensic science to cultural heritage. A protocol has been developed based on a multi-technique approach. In particular, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Pyrolysis/Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (Py/GC–MS) and μ-Raman spectroscopy were applied and their strength and weakness points as to the identification of all spray paints components are outlined. Each sample was first examined with FTIR spectroscopy as a preliminary screening step to obtain indications on the main binder, which could then be confirmed and detailed using Py/GC–MS. Some pigments and extenders could be efficiently identified by examination of the FTIR spectra and pyrolysis products. However, for most samples μ-Raman spectroscopy investigation was required in addition to the mentioned techniques in order to achieve the complete chemical characterisation of organic and inorganic pigments, extenders and fillers. Differences and common features among brands/colours are highlighted and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO nano/micro rod arrays (N/MRAs) thin films were grown on ZnO nuclei layer using chemical bath deposition technique via mixed degree of supersaturation. In the present work, the interface energy barrier introduced by Mn doping confine the nucleation site is decisively investigated. Hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure of pure and Mn doped ZnO N/MRAs is clearly confirmed by structural and optical characterization techniques (X-ray diffraction and µ-Raman). From XRD spectra, it is shown that the preferentially oriented (002) diffraction peak changed to (100) by Mn doping that indicates the stacked crystallographic planes are produced under nucleation sites barrier. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images of ZnO N/MRAs clearly shows the ZnO microrods (MRs) are aligned on ZnO nanorods (NRs). By Mn doping, the ZnO N/MRAs converted into microcrystalline structures including rods and spherulitic under changing mixed degree of supersaturation. The Mn ions in ZnO N/MRAs is confirmed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopic analysis (EDX).The band gap energy value and atomic level defect states of pure and Mn doped ZnO N/MRAs are calculated and analyzed using UV–vis absorption and photoluminescence spectra respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sherds representative of the three Portuguese faience production centers of the 17th century – Lisbon, Coimbra and Vila Nova were studied with the use of mostly non-invasive spectroscopies, namely: ground state diffuse reflectance absorption (GSDR), micro-Raman, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) and proton induced X-ray (PIXE) or X-ray fluorescence emission (XRF). X-ray diffraction (XRD) experiments were also performed. The obtained results evidence a clear similarity in the pastes of the pottery produced Vila Nova and some of the ceramic pastes from Lisbon, in accordance with documental sources that described the use of Lisbon clays by Vila Nova potters, at least since mid 17th century. Quartz and Gehlenite are the main components of the Lisbon’s pastes, but differences between the ceramic pastes were detected pointing out to the use of several clay sources. The spectroscopic trend exhibited Coimbra’s pottery is remarkably different, Quartz and Diopside being the major components of these pastes, enabling one to well define a pattern for these ceramic bodies. The blue pigment from the Lisbon samples is a cobalt oxide that exists in the silicate glassy matrix, which enables the formation of detectable cobalt silicate microcrystals in most productions of the second half of the 17th century. No micro-Raman cobalt blue signature could be detected in the Vila Nova and Coimbra blue glazes. This is in accordance with the lower kiln temperatures in these two production centers and with Co 2+ ions dispersed in the silicate matrix. In all cases the white glaze is obtained with the use of tin oxide. Hausmannite was detected as the manganese oxide mineral used to produce the purple glaze (wine color “vinoso”) in Lisbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study reveals the analytical characterisation carried out on ‘D’Aprés Cormon’ (1891) by Veloso Salgado, a copy of ‘Caïn’ (1880) by Fernando Cormon, belonging nowadays to Musée d’Orsay. Infrared Reflectography made in situ revealed underdrawing grid that was used to transpose the original painting to a smaller scale, pictorial style, execution method and retouched/restored areas. In situ EDXRF analysis together with Raman microscopy allowed the identification of gypsum, lead white, titanium white, yellow ochre, vermilion, ultramarine and lamp black. These results provide valuable information about the Salgado’s palette and his production technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] LIBS, Raman, FTIR and XRD techniques allowed to identify the red pigment as red ochre. [•] The proposed approach provided insights on the used pigments and painting techniques. [•] The red pigment of the plasters has been compared with local Cottanello red marble. [•] The use of local and poor materials in roman rural villa of Sabina has been confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The foral charter attributed by D. Manuel I of Portugal, in 1514, to the village of Sintra was studied using Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence spectrometry, Raman and Infrared micro-spectroscopies. A complete characterization of the pictorial materials used in the production of this masterpiece allowed the identification of iron gall inks used in the written text; pigments such as malachite, azurite, lead white, cinnabar, yellow ochre, gold, silver and carbon black in the illuminations and letterings; filler and binder used in the production of coloring materials and inks. Gum and calcium carbonate were the most recurrent binder and filler identified in this study. Silvering and gilding were mostly obtained by applying ground silver and gold on parchment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Thin films of Zinc oxide (ZnO) are deposited on sapphire substrates by a metalorganic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) process. ZnO thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy. Investigation of film’s guiding and optical properties is performed using m-lines spectroscopy. Ordinary and extraordinary refractive indices and the optical anisotropy are determined from TE and TM mode excitations. An analysis of optical anisotropy using guided modes with the optical axis oriented normal to the film’s surface confirm the layer’s uniaxial nature. Finally, the optical propagation loss was determined around 4.17 dB/cm at 632.8 nm. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • We demonstrate that Vasari's " Coronation of the virgin" is a finished work. • Mapping and punctual techniques are used for non-invasive spectroscopic analyses. • Paper preparation, inks, and impurities are identified by μ-Raman, FTIR, and MA-XRF. • This work sheds light on Giorgio Vasari's sophisticated artistic techniques. In the present paper, for the first time, non-invasive techniques have been employed to improve the knowledge of a Coronation of the Virgin dating back to 1560–70. This is an old master drawing by Giorgio Vasari, considered one of the major painters and art theoric of Italian late 16th Century. The adopted multi-technique approach, involving preliminary macroscopic and microscopic observations, and followed by X- ray fluorescence mapping (MA-XRF), μ-Raman, and Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses, along with the historical information, has allowed to identify the original materials and to understand the drawing's realization process. The results show that paper preparation has been realized by using a yellow mineral, namely goethite, in order to obtain a particular shade. Moreover, a proteinaceous component, likely animal gelatin, has been used as a binder for goethite or during the paper preparation process. Small white flakes, composed of lead white and massicot, have been randomly found on the surface of the drawing: the specific function and/or origin of these flakes is unknown. Finally, the use of black chalk for a preliminary sketch and iron gall ink for the final drawing has been observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few decades, polymers have progressively replaced metals and metallic alloys in technological applications for which, for example, lightweight, cost-effectiveness, chemical resistance and flexibility for precision-machines components are needed. Furthermore, there is great attention in modifying polymeric surfaces through physical and/or chemical treatments. In this context, the aim of this study is the enhancement of polypropylene specific automotive applications by inducing changes into its surface morphologies. Laser surface texturing technique is of particular interest because of its ability in producing morphological and, consequently, physical and/or chemical modifications on polymer surface. A femtosecond Titanium:Sapphire laser source was employed in order to investigate any variation of surface properties due to the fine tuning of both laser pulse energy and focused laser beam distance from the sample target. The laser treated samples were studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy, μ-Raman spectroscopy and contact angle measurements. The morphological analysis showed that micrometric sized dimple- and groove-like structures were produced after laser irradiation, maintaining mostly unchanged the chemical features of polypropylene surface but changing its wetting properties. These findings have been successfully applied to activate polypropylene surfaces for subsequent painting processes in automotive industry demonstrating that the femtosecond laser surface treatment here studied is an alternative method to the commonly used flame treatments on automotive components improving the paint adhesion to the treated polypropylene surfaces. Unlabelled Image • Fs laser surface texturing applied to polypropylene (PP) injection moulded material • Dimple- and groove-like surface configurations obtained by laser on PP material • Morphological, paint and adhesion tests on a PP laser micro-structured material [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study and the characterisation of modern and contemporary oil paintings is still a challenging issue, in particular considering the significant changes in paint production across the 19th and 20th centuries. This paper presents the results of the first physico-chemical integrated study of the artistic materials used in six paintings from the School of Art and Higher Design of Valencia (Escola d'Art i Superior de Disseny, EASD-Valencia), artworks created between 1871 and 1943 by four famous Valencian artists: Salustiano Asenso Arozarena, Salvador Abril I Blasco, Enrique Navas Escuriet and José Bellver Delmás. A wide range of inorganic and organic compounds was identified through a multi-analytical approach by means of visible reflectance spectroscopy, XRF, μ-Raman, FTIR and GC–MS. The investigation on the binding media suggests the use of commercial paint formulations including mixtures of drying, slow- and non-drying oils and the presence of Gum Arabic as well. Traditional pigments (such as vermillion, earth pigments, lead white) and modern pigments (such as zinc white, cobalt and chromium-based pigments) were identified together with fillers and extenders. Degradation products, in particular zinc and lead soaps having strong conservation implications, were also detected. This work, focusing on the identification of the palettes and the binding media used by the selected artists, aims at providing meaningful data and interesting case studies that are useful beyond the Valencian painters solely. This study provides new insight into the use of 19th–20th century commercial oil paints and the selection of painters' palette and their artistic production techniques. Besides, this work highlights the necessity of a multi-analytical approach to obtain valuable information for documentation and preventive conservation. Unlabelled Image • New insights into the knowledge of the composition of modern oil paints. • First holistic spectroscopic study on 19th–20th century Valencian painters. • Suitability of complementary non-invasive and micro-invasive analyses on modern paintings have been demonstrated. • The use of complex lipid mixtures in commercial paint formulations has been found. • The identification of pigments and fillers in Valencian artists' palettes are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lagoa Henriques (1923–2009), the well-known Portuguese Sculptor, was also Drawing professor at the Lisbon School of Fine Arts. The sculptor is known for drawing on paper tablecloths during coffee chats. Some of these drawings have become part of the collection of the Faculty of Fine Arts from the University of Lisbon, and like many contemporary artworks that are not carried out with materials conceived for this purpose, pose relevant conservation issues. To ensure the future preservation of the drawings with scientific-based knowledge, non-destructive micro-analytical characterization of the supports and drawing materials was carried out. Micro-Raman spectroscopy enabled the identification of calcite and anatase as fillers in the paper support, carbon black in the ink, and contributed to the diagnostic of the state of conservation of the drawings based on the obtained Raman cellulose spectra. Furthermore, micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (μ-XRF) allowed the identification of clay fillers and sizing materials in the paper support, as well as the chemical identification of coffee characteristic elements on the drawings. The 2D elemental maps obtained by μ-XRF indicates an accumulation of phosphorus, sulphur, potassium and calcium in the coffee stains. • Coffee drawings on tablecloth by the Portuguese sculptor Lagoa Henriques were under study. • As many contemporary artworks that are produced in non-classic materials, they pose relevant conservation issues. • Future preservation of the drawings required non-destructive XRF and Raman analysis of the support and the graphic media. • Strong oxidation of the cellulose support was diagnosed by Raman spectroscopy. • High levels of Sulphur and Phosphor, detected by XRF, can lead to acidic hydrolysis of the cellulose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]