Characterization of hafting adhesives using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry

The determination of the presence and the composition of residues from organic materials
on archeological objects allows the behavior of our prehistoric ancestors to be
better understood. The functional analysis of tools used for daily life activities, such
as hunting or hide working, represents an important source of information. However,
the chemical characterization of residues from archeological artifacts represents an
analytical challenge. On one hand, the residues are made of different natural materials
containing hundreds of chemicals. This complexity requires advanced analytical
procedures to separate and identify the constituents. On the other hand, the low
quantity and the advanced degradation require sensitive and non-destructive methods.
In this study, an approach employing headspace sampling (solid-phase microextraction)
with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to highresolution-time-of-flight
mass spectrometry was developed for the characterization of
adhesive residues on simulated archeological artifacts. First, the performance of the
analytical system was evaluated on a standard mixture and a pine resin sample. Next,
adhesives and adhesives mixtures were analyzed that represented typical compositions
that have been witnessed in archaeological applications. This analytical approach
is a gateway into new potential for headspace organic residue characterization as a first
step of analysis prior to altering residues for additional characterization.