On Demand Webinar

An Expert System for Interpreting Pyrolysis-GC/MS Data for Synthetic Paint Media

Pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) is a reliable analytical technique capable of characterizing a wide range of organic materials. However, even experienced users can be intimidated by the challenges of data interpretation.

An expert system utilizing AMDIS (Automated Mass Spectral Deconvolution and Identification System, available from NIST) for marker compound identification and Excel for data interpretation was developed at the Getty Conservation Institute that facilitates accurate characterization of synthetic paint media. The system, which incorporates knowledge from Pyrolysis-GC/MS experts about marker compounds along with guidelines on how to interpret their distributions in paint samples, can benefit paint chemists and forensic examiners of trace evidence.

Key webinar takeaways:

Learn how to use AMDIS for marker compound identification in paint samples
Discover capabilities of Excel for sorting marker compounds in an AMDIS report into different categories of paint media
Employ expert knowledge in the system to determine sample composition
Use customized graphs and tables for meaningful presentation of composition results

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This Webinar is Presented By:

Michael Schilling, PhD

Associate Scientist

Getty Conservation Institute

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Mr. Schilling studied chemistry at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, California. Michael Schilling assisted in authenticity studies of art objects being considered for acquisition by the Museum. Later, after the GCI was established as a separate program of the J. Paul Getty Trust, his work included performing color measurements in the tomb of Nefertari prior to the tomb’s conservation; he is now doing similar work on the Mogao and Yungang Grottoes in China. He also has conducted research on volatile organic compounds emitted from building materials used in museum display and storage. At the moment, most of his professional time is spent conducting gas chromotography and mass spectrometry of organic binding media as part of the Institute’s research on binding media, the substance that holds pigments together and that adheres paint to surfaces. Mr. Schilling continued his studies at Cal Poly, receiving a master’s degree in analytical chemistry in 1990.