Archaeology compound-specific stable isotope analysis

The aims of this contribution are to (i) consider the theoretical principles underlying the use of compound-specific stable isotope analysis in archaeology (ii) consider the practical aspects of undertaking compound-specific stable isotope analyses and (iii) demonstrate the value of linking the structures of amino acids, fatty acids and/or sterols, to their compound-specific stable isotope values to achieve new insights into variations in metabolism and environment in order to enhance archaeological interpretations. 

Figure 14.6 Generalised analytical protocol for the compound specific stable isotope analysis of free and building block components of complex archaeological materials...

Applications of Compound-specific Stable Isotope Analysis in Archaeology... 

Reber, E. A., Dudd, S. N., van der Merwe, N. J. and Evershed, R. P. (2004) Direct detection of maize processing in archaeological pottery through compound specific stable isotope analysis of n dotriacontanol in absorbed organic residues. Antiquity 78, 682 691. 

Compound specific Stable Isotopes in Organic Residue Analysis in Archaeology 393... 

Evershed, R.P. (2009) Compound specific stable isotopes. In Organic Residue Analysis in Archaeology, edited by Colombini, M.P, Modugno, F. Chichester John Wiley Sons, pp. 391 32. 

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