Abstract
Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) spectroscopy with data
treatment via chemometric tools was explored as an analytical protocol to
discriminate between authentic and counterfeit revenue stamps. Untreated
samples were directly analyzed, and the discrimination was based on the
characterization of constituent elements present in the inks and paper.
Authentic samples and samples that were suspected of being counterfeit
were analyzed at three different areas on their surfaces: the ink-printed
area, the non-printed area, and the holographic area. Principal component
analysis (PCA) was applied to the data to discriminate between authentic
and counterfeit revenue stamps. Major differences in the elemental
composition were noted (according to chemometrics and t-test, p <
0.05), and ED-XRF spectroscopy plus PCA protocol is proposed for use by
non-specialist operators to screen for counterfeit stamps.
© 2016 The Author(s)
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