Historical Textile Dye Analysis Using DESI-MS

Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) is an ambient technique that shows great potential for the analysis of fragile heritage objects in situ. This article focuses on application a recently built DESI source to characterize natural dyestuffs historical textiles and presentation initial imaging experiments. Optimization instrumental settings, geometrical parameters, solvent system DESI-MS was conducted rhodamine B samples. Some variables, including increased flow rate, narrower range optimized variables without additives, were applicable both early synthetic dyes. Direct dye turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) could be reliably analyzed silk wool, as anthraquinone standards mordanting. These preliminary results suggest process (direct, mordant, vat) has large impact efficiency DESI-MS. Imaging trials highlighted suitability patterned are difficult sample, such calico fabrics, or other currently inaccessible objects.