Synthesizing lead white pigments by lead corrosion

New insights into the ancient manufacturing processes

Journal article (2019)

Authors

V.M.J.M. Gonzalez (OLD) MSE-4 , Louvre, PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech, CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, Rijksmuseum
Gilles Wallez PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech, CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, Louvre, UPMC-Sorbonne Universités & CNRS
Thomas Calligaro PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech, CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, Louvre
Didier Gourier PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech, CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, Louvre
Michel Menu PSL Research University, Chimie ParisTech, CNRS, Institut de Recherche de Chimie Paris, Louvre
Research Group
(OLD) MSE-4
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Published Date

2019

Language

English

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Research Group

(OLD) MSE-4

Abstract

Traditional “stack “manufacturing process (16–19th c.) of lead white pigment by lead corrosion is explored by exposing metal to acetic acid, carbon dioxide, dioxygen and water vapor. Global reaction scheme is revealed, along with stratification of corrosion products with CO2 gradient, leading to flakiness of corrosion layer. Kinetic and epitaxial features rule the polyphased structure, explaining hydrocerussite-rich compositions and absence of plumbonacrite in classical easel paintings. Microstructure of cerussite appears as a differentiation criterion between stack-made and industrial precipitation-synthesized lead whites. Particular conditions reported in ancient writings are tested and discussed to understand unusual processes.

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