Máté Karlik

Short biography of Máté Karlik Máté Karlik is a research fellow with a PhD in Earth Sciences from the University of Szeged. His primary focus is on large-scale analytical techniques, including SEM; elemental analysis (XRF) and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). His main interests revolve around the calibration of various technologies and their combined application.

ABSTRACT

Exploring the Differences: Varieties of Zinc White

Máté Karlik^1,2*; Tímea Varga¹; Anna Vancsik²; Fruzsina Gresina²; Zoltán May^1,3; Timea Melinda Cseh¹; Péter Németh²; Éva Galambos^1,4; Mátyás Horváth¹;
¹ Museum Conservation and Storage Centre, Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest, Hungary
² Research Centre for Astronomy and Earth Sciences, HUN-REN. Budapest, Hungary
³ Research Centre for Natural Sciences, HUN-REN, Budapest, Hungary
⁴ Hungarian University of Fine Arts, Budapest, Hungary

Zinc white, comprising primarily zinc oxide (ZnO) and zinc sulfide (ZnS), is a versatile pigment widely used in various applications. This study aims to elucidate the differences between various ZnO and ZnS types by employing a suite of advanced analytical techniques: scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), furthermore particle size analysis and particle morphology assessment. Each technique provides unique insights into the structural, chemical, and physical characteristics of ZnO and ZnS compounds, facilitating a comprehensive comparison.

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) will be utilised to examine the surface morphology and microstructural features of particles. SEM images will reveal variations in particle shape, size, and surface texture, which are crucial for understanding how these particles interact with their environment. This technique will allow us to identify differences in surface roughness and particle aggregation, providing the basis for further analysis.

Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) will be employed to investigate the chemical composition and bonding structures of samples. The FTIR spectra will highlight distinct absorption bands corresponding to specific molecular vibrations, indicating variations in chemical purity and the presence of different functional groups. This analysis will help in distinguishing between ZnO and ZnS based on their IR signatures.

Particle size analysis will be conducted to determine the distribution and average size of ZnO and ZnS particles. This technique will provide insights into the particle size distribution, which can influence the optical properties, dispersion stability, and reactivity of the samples.

The assessment of particle morphology will provide detailed information on the shape and structural integrity of particles. By combining SEM and particle size analysis, we will gain insights into the correlation between particle shape and size, which can affect the performance of these pigments in various contexts.

X-ray diffractometry (XRD) will be used to analyse the crystal structure of samples. XRD patterns will provide insights into the various crystalline forms, crystallinity and phase composition of zinc compounds.

By integrating the findings from these techniques, we aim to draw comprehensive conclusions about the differences between various Zink White pigments. This study highlights the importance of using multiple analytical methods to fully characterise and distinguish these pigments, providing valuable insights for their applications in art conservation. This multi-faceted approach not only enhances our understanding of zinc white but also sets a precedent for the detailed study of other pigments and materials.