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Strontium (Sr) isotope analysis on archaeological human and animal remains, which can be used to infer mobility, origin, and lifeways (e.g. herding strategies), has become widespread since its initial uses nearly four decades ago. In that time, several sampling and analytical techniques have been developed to determine the 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios recorded in an individual’s bones and teeth. Initial Sr isotope studies utilised bulk sampling techniques, but in-situ techniques, such as laser ablation (LA) and micro-drilling, have been developed that are less destructive and provide greater sampling spatial resolution. Each of the main analytical methods: Thermal Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (TIMS), solution-Multicollector-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (solution-MC-ICP-MS) and Laser ablation -Multicollector-Inductively Coupled Plasma -Mass Spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS), have their advantages and disadvantages regarding speed and ease of analysis; precision and accuracy of results; ionisation and transport efficiency; and (perceived) destructiveness. Different research questions require different levels of compositional and/or spatial resolution, dependent on a whole range of factors including sample size; uniqueness of a particular sample; the Sr concentration of the sample; and the degree of variation in the bioavailable 87Sr/86Sr values in the relevant biosphere. Furthermore, the availability of facilities can impact what questions can be addressed. There is also ongoing debate in the literature regarding the reliability of some results, specifically about potential interferences during LA-MC-ICP-MS analysis of enamel and the accuracy of 87Sr/86Sr measurements in low Sr concentration teeth. Here we present suggested guidelines for establishing which technique(s) might be most appropriate for the Sr isotope analysis of bioarchaeological remains for a variety of scenarios.

EAA 2022: Abstract

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