Development of an Optimized NDT Methodology for the Investigation of Ancient Greek Copper-Based Artifacts

A multi-analytical non-destructive testing (NDT) methodology was applied to copper-based artifacts originated from various archaeological sites of Greece. X-ray fluorescence (XRF), fiber optics diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (FORS) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with an energy dispersive detector (ESEM-EDX) were used for the characterization alloys corrosion products. The key elements belonging Early Bronze Age (2700–2300 BC) copper arsenic, while tin bronze fabrication Late (1600–1100 artifacts. effectiveness XRF determination bulk composition confirmed by comparative study previously atomic absorption (AAS) inductively plasma–atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) destructive techniques. Significant differences between revealed through spectral measurement their surface products color FORS. ESEM-EDX provided information on microstructure, elemental layers bulk, as well distribution surface. Conclusively, combined NDT could be regarded a valuable appropriate tool alloy, thus leading classification historical period products, contributing significantly conservation–restoration.