Characterization of Asian lacquers by atmospheric solids analysis probe high resolution tandem mass spectrometry coupled with cyclic ion mobility separation

Abstract

In the restoration and conservation of oriental lacquers, it is important to know what type of lacquer(s) and other components were used during the production of surveyed and potentially conserved or restored object. Traditionally infrared spectroscopy and pyrolysis combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (py-GC/MS) are used for lacquer type classification. We suggested a new approach based on atmospheric solids analysis probe high resolution tandem mass spectrometry coupled with cyclic ion mobility (ASAP-IMS-THRMS). This method was applied to 27 historical lacquer samples of Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and Burmese provenance dated from the 17th to the 20th centuries, and allowed their resolution and classification according to region of origin. The main classification capability was provided by phenol and benzenediol derivatives. The analysis of these compounds aside, the method allowed simultaneous detection of arsenic sulfides pigments as well as diterpenic and triterpenic resins in lacquer layers allowing samples characterization in a wider restoration, conservation and art history context.