Applications of ion beam analysis in archaeology and the arts

Abstract Ion beam techniques are widely used for the nondestructive analysis of objects of art and archaeology. With simple, fast, and direct procedures practically all chemical elements present in the object can be identified, and determined quantitatively with good sensitivity, accuracy and precision. The external beam technique gives the possibility of examining all articles of any size and shape without sampling. Thus, valuable information can be obtained for the composition of the objects, for the fabrication techniques, the origin of materials, etc. This information may be used for purposes of historical interest, for restoration procedures, for identification of forgeries, and many other aspects. Examples are described briefly for dating by fluorine determination, for studies on coins ceramic surfaces, old paintings, etc.