Terahertz Analysis of Phthalocyanine Pigments

Authors

Andrew Squires, University of WollongongFollow
R A. Lewis, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

136154

Publication Details

Squires, A. D. & Lewis, R. A. (2019). Terahertz Analysis of Phthalocyanine Pigments. Journal of Infrared, Millimeter, and Terahertz Waves, 40 (7), 738-751.

Abstract

In situ, non-invasive and non-destructive analysis of important artworks and cultural pieces is largely important in art conservation science. Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and imaging delivers these requirements but lacks a materials database with fundamental understanding of salient pigments, binders and substrates. In this study, the most important synthetic pigments, the copper phthalocyanines, are investigated through terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. The terahertz spectrum reveals a series of characteristic modes in a 0.1–3-THz range across 14 pigment samples. Identification and distinction of copper phthalocyanines’ α, β and e crystal polymorphs is demonstrated. This uniqueness within the terahertz regime is extended to two halogenated variants and a metal-free form. This invites the use of THz spectroscopy in investigation of contemporary artworks, post 1935, containing these pigments and promotes applications such as identifying fraudulent works of art.