Optimization of Extraction Methods for the Analysis of Red Synthetic Pigments Used in Artworks by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

This paper deals with the use of high-performance liquid chromatography in the identification of red synthetic pigments on samples from artworks. These pigments have usually low solubility, so it is necessary to choose a suitable extraction method for their conversion to the liquid phase, the optimization of which is the main focus of this paper. Various extraction methods have been tested and compared on a wide range of synthetic pigments. Oxalic acid extraction proved to be the most suitable extraction method, which was subsequently successfully verified on samples taken from artwork.