Purchase of an FTIR Microscope for Analysis of Archaeological Materials

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Goldberg0083555Funding is requested for a Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) microscope-spectrometer system to serve the needs of investigators in the Departments of Archeology, Chemistry and Earth Sciences at Boston University. This instrument will be used to obtain complete spectra on very small (ca. 100-microgram) samples and to analyze very small (_10-micron) features in macroscopic samples.Specific applications of the FTIR microspectrometer will include the analysis of polymer-embedded sediments (e.g., from caves) for evidence of prehistoric human occupation, of paint pigments and binding materials from paintings, of archeological objects currently being uncovered at sites in China; and the detection of volatile substances (HZO and CO') trapped under high pressure in volcanic rocks, in order to better understand the explosivity and other properties of magma in volcanoes. Geological and paint pigment applications exploit existing techniques; the archeological applications are novel.The FTIR microspectrometer is a robust instrument which can be used by faculty and students alike and therefore will have a significant impact on both our research and training programs. It will promote new areas research and strengthen developing core programs in archeology and materials analysis at Boston University, besides contributing to the understanding of prehistoric human behavior, the documentation and conservation of human cultural artifacts.