Trace Element Analysis with Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

 This method has proven particularly useful for identifying activity areas, investigating contamination from metalworking, and conducting provenance studies, providing important insights into trade routes and the origin of materials.

ICP-MS enables the detection and quantification of trace elements at extremely low concentrations, allowing researchers to uncover details about both environmental conditions and human activity on a local scale. This technique has also been used to study interactions between humans and their surroundings over time.

With ICP-MS, it is possible to analyse most elements, from sodium (Na) and above in the periodic table, with the exception of silicon (Si). Phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S) are also challenging to analyse, as they have high ionization potential and may be affected by interferences from other elements in the sample. In addition to determining elemental compositions, ICP-MS can also analyse isotopes of certain elements, such as lead (Pb), strontium (Sr).

To ensure effective analysis, samples sent for ICP-MS should be dry and placed in plastic bags (avoid aluminium foil, as it may affect the results). For soil samples, approximately 1 dl is recommended, while samples of bone, metals, and ceramics should weigh around 1 gram. For soil samples, it is also valuable to include reference samples from areas outside the. primary investigation site, as this can help contextualize the analysed samples and provide more accurate results. Keep in mind that the sampling process is destructive, so documenting objects before sending them to AFL is recommended. Prior to analysis, the samples are dissolved in acid.