Trace element analysis using ICP-MS to identify metalworking at the Ribchester Roman fort, Lancashire

Wong, King Fai Jackie (2019) Trace element analysis using ICP-MS to identify metalworking at the Ribchester Roman fort, Lancashire. Masters thesis, University of Central Lancashire.

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Abstract

ICP-MS was used to discern the functionality of a clay hearth in the remains of Brementenacum Veteranorum. Once a Roman fort built in 72 – 73 AD and stood for over three centuries, the archaeologically rich site offered a glimpse into the past and shows evidence of ‘post-Roman’ metalworking activities. By evolving an ICP-MS protocol to accommodate the study, the soil evidence was analysed. With the presence of trace amounts of lead, copper and zinc, a temporary smithy was identified instead of a domestic hearth. The pattern of lead suggested metalworking with this element, especially due to the lack of the metal from the samples of the hearth, but high concentrations around its immediate vicinity and tapering away from the forge remains. This was indicative of lead working. Precious metals such as gold and silver were investigated and yielded negative results, suggesting jewellery was not made in this location. This find contributes to the current chronology as evidence suggesting ‘post-Roman’ activities in Ribchester. Soil samples were collected from an ongoing excavation at the site led by a team of archaeologists from the University of Central Lancashire. ICP-MS provides increased sensitivity and improved detection limits over other analytical techniques previously employed. This work offers an alternative method to those in need of stringent examinations of archaeological soil samples in the hopes of identifying potential anthropogenic traces of heavy metals.


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