Application of Fourier Transform Attenuated Total Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy to Identifying Archaeological Fibres

Abstract

There are many ways to identify fibres; however, since most of the tests are destructive or the sample preparation process is complex, most methods used to identify archaeological fibres have their limitations. Among the existing methods, Fourier Transform Attenuated Total Reflection Infrared (ATR-FTIR) technology is relatively simple, fast and non-destructive, and the results are more accurate and reliable. In this study, four samples of ancient Chinese fibre, yarn, and fabric were identified using ATR-FTIR technology. Spectra of fingerprints show that the characteristics of cotton, linen, and wool are clear. The spectra of archaeological cotton fibre and modern cotton fibre are compared and analyzed. The results show that as a non-destructive method for analyzing surface composition of materials, ATR-FTIR technology is suitable for the identification of archaeological fibres.

Citation

Cao, Q., Zhu, S., Zhao, H. and Tu, H. (2010), "Application of Fourier Transform Attenuated Total Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy to Identifying Archaeological Fibres", Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, Vol. 14 No. 1, pp. 38-41. https://doi.org/10.1108/RJTA-14-01-2010-B004