Trace elements in excavated human hair

Area of Science:

• Archaeometry
• Bioarchaeology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Excavated human remains offer insights into past populations.
• Hair is a valuable biomaterial for elemental analysis due to its preservation potential.
• Distinguishing biomaterial elemental profiles from soil contamination is crucial for accurate interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine elemental concentrations (Ca, Sr, Mg, Zn, Cu) in excavated hair.
• To differentiate hair elemental signatures from soil contamination.
• To interpret trace element data in the context of nutrition and historical settings.

Main Methods:

• Elemental analysis of excavated hair specimens and associated soil samples.
• Comparative analysis of elemental concentrations between hair and soil.
• Correlation of elemental profiles with known historical and environmental data.

Main Results:

• Differential trace element concentrations successfully distinguished hair samples from soil contamination.
• Observed elemental patterns in hair suggest variations in nutritional intake.
• Results align with prior bone analyses and historical site information.

Conclusions:

• Excavated hair provides reliable data for reconstructing past nutritional status.
• Elemental analysis of hair can overcome challenges posed by soil contamination.
• Hair elemental content offers a window into the lives of past populations.