Metallomics and Isotopolomics
The high-resolution analysis of inorganic elements (metallomics), e.g. using ICP-MS or XRF, is particularly suitable for investigating inorganic inks or inorganic writing surfaces made of stone, ceramics or pottery. But information can also be obtained from organic materials such as palm leaves or paper. Possible questions include determining the geographical origin or the production methods.
Isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) studies focus in particular on the stable isotope ratios of 2H/1H, 14C/13C/12C, 15N/14N, 18O/16O and 34S/32S. Of particular importance is the ratio of 14C, which can be used to date ancient artefacts.The determination of the other ratios is suitable, for example, for geographical proofs of origin. The ratios of 2H/1H and 18O/16O are particularly relevant here, since they depend particularly heavily on climatic factors and the distance from the sea and the equator.