Practical Considerations in Trace Element Analysis of Bone by Portable X-ray Fluorescence

Area of Science:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Materials Science
• Archaeometry

Background:

• Forensic anthropologists increasingly utilize nondestructive techniques for skeletal trace elemental analysis.
• Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) offers versatility for in-situ analysis of diverse skeletal remains.
• Understanding X-ray penetration and exit depths is crucial for accurate XRF analysis of bone.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the analysis depth of pXRF in osseous materials.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of pXRF for analyzing bone surfaces in forensic and archaeological contexts.
• To assess the impact of surface preparation and diagenesis on pXRF readings.

Main Methods:

• Determined XRF analysis depth by analyzing pure elements through calibrated equine bone slices.
• Correlated element X-ray emission energy with observed reading depths.
• Analyzed bone surfaces from a historic cemetery before and after periosteal sanding to assess diagenetic effects.

Main Results:

• A correlation was observed between an element's X-ray emission energy and its analysis depth in bone.
• Sanding the periosteal surface altered pXRF readings, indicating sensitivity to surface conditions and potential diagenesis.
• The study confirmed pXRF's utility for nondestructive elemental analysis of bone.

Conclusions:

• Portable X-ray fluorescence is a valuable, convenient tool for nondestructive elemental analysis of skeletal remains.
• Knowledge of XRF parameters, particularly penetration depth, is essential for accurate interpretation of bone analyses.
• Further research should consider the influence of diagenesis and surface treatments on pXRF results for forensic and archaeological applications.