Elemental and spectroscopic characterization of plasters from Fatih Mosque-Istanbul (Turkey) by combined micro-Raman, FTIR and EDXRF techniques.

The characterization of the plasters and coloring agents of the wall paintings of Fatih Mosque have been performed using combined micro-Raman, FTIR and EDXRF techniques. The investigations show that the plaster used on the walls has mixed gypsum-lime binders. Cinnabar {HgS}, lead red {Pb3O4} and hematite {α-Fe2O3} were identified in the red surfaces. Blue color is attributed to ultramarine blue {Na8-10Al6Si6O24S2-4}. Green color is assigned to mixtures of green earth, copper phthalocyanine {Cu(C32Cl16N8)} and brochantite {CuSO4·3Cu(OH)2}. Strontium yellow {SrCrO4} and zinc white {ZnO} were also used to ensure the color tone. The results provide a basis for future restoration of wall paints.