Ref ID:	22484
Ref Type:	Book Section
Authors:	Lampert, C. D. Glover, I. C. Heron, C. P. Stern, B. Shoocongdej, R. Thompson, G. B.
Title:	Characterization and radiocarbon dating of archaeological resins from Southeast Asia
Date:	2002
Source:	Archaeological chemistry: materials, methods, and meaning
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Abstract:	Archaeologists have identified evidence for the use of resins in association with some Southeast Asian ceramics. Resins are largely mixtures of terpenoids with similar molecular structure and numerous isomers. Well-established methods to investigate solvent soluble components of modern resins include gas chromatography and GC-mass spectrometry, sometimes combined with pyrolytic techniques to explore the high MW or polymeric insoluble fraction. This approach is equally applicable to the characterisation of archaeological resins. Although resins are a widespread natural resource in Southeast Asia, it is not clear which of the many resinous species were exploited in the past. To this end, a study of archaeological resins from Southeast Asia is underway with objectives of identification, examination of use, comparisons across geographical distance and time, and evaluating their merit for radiocarbon dating. Samples have been analysed using GC and GC-MS and preliminary results suggest that Dipterocarp resins were used adhesives or sealants.
Date Created:	2/3/2016
Editors:	Jakes, Kathryn A.
Volume:	831
Page Start:	84
Page End:	109
Series Title:	ACS Symposium Series