Chemical analysis of adsorbed organic residues on ceramics is an established method for identifying food and trade items from the ancient world. Such characterization involves a variety of methods often requiring lengthy preparation steps. A large proportion of samples chosen for residue characterization yield no identifiable compounds of interest. DART-MS has potential for use as a high throughput method for screening samples for further study, as it requires little sample preparation and short run times. Our research is aimed at evaluating DART-MS as a biomarker screening tool prior to use on genuine archeological samples. Simulated archeological ceramics were prepared in the laboratory and evaluated using DART-MS. Mass spectra for wine residues showed significant quantities of tartaric acid even lengthy burial and intensive cleaning. Fatty acids in olive oil and dairy residues are not qualitatively diagnostic, but in-source doping to enhance triglyceride signals may differentiate these two materials.

Rapid characterization of organic residues on ceramics using direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry

245th National Meeting (2013)

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