C. M Batt - Böcker

This book is an introductory manual that explains the basic concepts of chemistry behind scientific analytical techniques and that reviews their application to archaeology. It explains key terminology, outlines the procedures to be followed in order to produce good data, and describes the function of the basic instrumentation required to carry out those procedures. The manual contains chapters on the basic chemistry and physics necessary to understand the techniques used in analytical chemistry, with more detailed chapters on Atomic Absorption, Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectroscopy, Neutron Activation Analysis, X-ray Flourescence, Electron Microscopy, Infra-red and Raman Spectroscopy, and Mass Spectrometry. Each chapter describes the operation of the instruments, some hints on the practicalities, and a review of the application of the technique to archaeology, including some case studies. With guides to further reading on the topic, it is an essential tool for practitioners, researchers and advanced students alike.

This book is an introductory manual that explains the basic concepts of chemistry behind scientific analytical techniques and that reviews their application to archaeology. It explains key terminology, outlines the procedures to be followed in order to produce good data, and describes the function of the basic instrumentation required to carry out those procedures. The manual contains chapters on the basic chemistry and physics necessary to understand the techniques used in analytical chemistry, with more detailed chapters on Atomic Absorption, Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectroscopy, Neutron Activation Analysis, X-ray Flourescence, Electron Microscopy, Infra-red and Raman Spectroscopy, and Mass Spectrometry. Each chapter describes the operation of the instruments, some hints on the practicalities, and a review of the application of the technique to archaeology, including some case studies. With guides to further reading on the topic, it is an essential tool for practitioners, researchers and advanced students alike.

This volume serves as an introduction to the principles and applications of analytical chemistry to archaeological materials. Accessible to students without a comprehensive background in chemistry, it will enable them to draw meaningful interpretations from analytical data in order to facilitate a deeper understanding of the beliefs of people in the distant past. The second edition has been thoroughly revised to include the cutting-edge developments in analytical chemistry that have occurred over the last two decades. It offers a detailed explanation of the principles behind the analytical techniques, allowing archaeologists to appreciate the strengths and limitations of data generated through analysis of archaeological objects. The volume also includes interdisciplinary perspectives, showing how the interaction between a range of disciplines enables a deeper understanding of human behaviour and beliefs in the past. Importantly, the book provides basic information on laboratory procedures and safety that fosters an understanding of the practicalities of laboratory science.