Analysing archaeological basalt using non-destructive energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence (EDXRF): effects of post-depositional chemical weathering and sample size on analytical precision

Author:

Hon, K., Lundblad, S. P., Mills, P. R.

Title:

Analysing archaeological basalt using non-destructive energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence (EDXRF): effects of post-depositional chemical weathering and sample size on analytical precision

Periodical:

Archaeometry

Year:

2008

Volume:

50

Pages:

1-11

Subject:

Basalt Geochemistry Mauna Kea

Summary:

Studies attempting to quantify uncertainties that were associated with non-destructive analysis have concentrated on obsidian artifacts and errors that were related to size, thickness, and surface morphology. By examining similar features of basalt that influence analytical reproducibility and uncertainty in stone tool artifacts and debitage, attempts were made to build on these earlier studies. However, when compared to homogenized, powdered, and fused or compressed pellets, an analysis of unmodified rock, imparts an additional set of uncertainties to the analysis. As a result, the precision and accuracy of non-destructive EDXRF for basalt artifacts by analyzing varying size and weathering characteristics are examined here.

URL:

http://cletus.uhh.hawaii.edu:2074/10.1111/j.1475-4754.2007.00345.x

Collection:

Periodicals