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Terahertz Analysis of Phthalocyanine Pigments

Apr 16, 2020

Squires, A. D., and R. A. Lewis. “Terahertz Analysis of Phthalocyanine Pigments.” Journal of Infrared, Millimeter, and Terahertz Waves 40, no. 7 (2019): 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 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.

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