Portable X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (pXRF) allowed researchers to gain new insights into the pigments used in ancient rock art in Texas, USA. Previous studies at the Rattlesnake Canyon site have used ICP-MS, which requires samples of paint to be taken. With pXRF, the researchers were able to carry out elemental analysis with no risk of damaging the artwork. They reported their findings at the American Chemical Society (ACS) Spring 2019 National Meeting & Exposition.
Credit: Courtesy of Shumla Archaeological Research and Education Center
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