Examination of Historic Window Lead
Author(s): David Dungworth, Roger Wilkes
The lead (cames) used in some historic windows to fix panels of glass (e.g. stained glass windows) needs periodic replacement. While the lead used in windows before the 19th century may last for many hundreds of years, there are doubts about the durability of lead used since the 19th century. Fifty-one samples of lead cames were analysed using EDXRF. Tin was detected in approximately half of the samples (probably accidentally introduced during the recycling of old cames along with soldered joints) and older lead tends to contain higher tin levels. The microstructures were examined but these provided little information.
- Report Number:
- 106/2002
- Series:
- CfA Reports
- Pages:
- 9
- Keywords:
- Lead
