2D µ-XANES and Mössbauer study of ε‑Fe2O3 containing Song dynasty Chinese black-to-brown glazed ceramic

Black-to-brown glazed ceramics manufactured during the Song Dynasty have become a hot topic since the discovery of ε‑Fe2O3 at their surface. This oxide has interesting magnetic properties, so a better understanding of the chemistry leading to its growth in such ceramics is an important asset for modern applications. In addition, their high cultural importance, in particular in Japan and China, is another key reason that drives this study of their manufacturing process. Here, we propose a unique combination of Mössbauer spectroscopy (ID14) and Fe Kα edge µ-XANES (ID21/ ID24) to study Fe speciation and distribution in fragments of historical Song ceramics.