RT info:eu-repo/semantics/article
T1 In situ Raman characterization of minerals and degradation processes in a variety of cultural and geological heritage sites
A1 Gázquez, Fernando
A1 Rull Pérez, Fernando
A1 Sanz Arranz, Aurelio
A1 Medina García, Jesús
A1 Calaforra, José María
A1 Heras, C. de las
A1 Lasheras, J.A.
AB Wetest the capabilities of in situ Raman spectroscopy for non-destructive analysis of degradation processes in invaluablemasterpieces, as well as for the characterization of minerals and prehistoric rock-art in caves. To thisend, we have studied the mechanism of decay suffered by the 15th-century limestone sculptures that decoratethe retro-choir of Burgos Cathedral (N Spain). In situ Raman probe detected hydrated sulfate and nitratemineralson the sculptures, which are responsible for the decay of the original limestone. In addition, in situ Raman analyseswere performed on unique speleothems in El Soplao Cave (Cantabria, N Spain) and in the Gruta de lasMaravillas (Aracena, SWSpain). Unusual cavemineralswere detected in El Soplao Cave, such as hydromagnesite(Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2·4H2O), as well as ferromanganese oxides in the black biogenic speleothems recently discoveredin this cavern. In the Gruta de las Maravillas, gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) was identified for the first time, aspart of the oldest cave materials, so providing additional evidence of hypogenic mechanisms that occurred inthis cave during earlier stages of its formation. Finally, we present preliminary analyses of several cave paintingsin the renowned “Polychrome Hall” of Altamira Cave (Cantabria, N. Spain). Hematite (Fe2O3) is the most abundantmineral phase, which provides the characteristic ochre-reddish color to the Altamira bison and deer paintings.Thus, portable Raman spectroscopy is demonstrated to be an analytical technique compatible withpreserving our cultural and natural heritage, since the analysis does not require physical contact between theRaman head and the analyzed items.
YR 2016
FD 2016
LK http://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/22998
UL http://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/22998
LA eng
NO Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy
DS UVaDOC
RD 22-nov-2024