Fingerprinting Glues Using HS‐SPME GC×GC–HRTOFMS: a New Powerful Method Allows Tracking Glues Back in Time

Abstract

The use of glues for stone tool hafting is an important innovation in human evolution. Compared to other organic remains, glues are preserved more frequently, though mainly in small spots. Reliable identification requires chemical molecular characterization, which is traditionally performed by gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Current methods of extraction and derivatization prior to GC–MS are destructive and require relatively large samples, which is problematic for prehistoric glue residues. In this paper, we discuss the results of an experimental study using a new method (HS‐SPME GC×GC–HRTOFMS) that proves effective for identifying small quantities of compound glues. The method is non‐destructive with an improved sensitivity in comparison to traditional GC–MS, and it has a high potential for prehistoric samples.

Understanding preservation and identification biases of ancient adhesives through experimentation

“…A range of experimental work has provided further background knowledge on the material properties and the effects of fire on adhesive residues (Cnuts et al 2017;Kozowyk et al 2016Kozowyk et al , 2017aZipkin et al 2014). Advances in chemical analyses have improved our ability to accurately identify adhesive types based on smaller and smaller residues (Cnuts et al 2018;Hayes et al 2019;Monnier et al 2013Monnier et al , 2017Monnier et al , 2018. However, for all of this work, there are still a limited number of well identified and analysed adhesive residues on archaeological material of Palaeolithic origin.…”

A closer look at an eroded dune landscape: first functional insights into the Federmessergruppen site of Lommel-Maatheide

“…A further characterization with gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy is required to further confirm that these residues are effectively glue remains and to determine their molecular composition. The presence of, for instance, terpenes and terpenoids would permit a further identification as plant resin (Cnuts, Perrault, et al 2018;Langenheim 2003;Regert 2004). This characterization is part of an on-going study.…”

A closer look at an eroded dune landscape: first functional insights into the Federmessergruppen site of Lommel-Maatheide

“…A further characterization with gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy is required to further confirm that these residues are effectively glue remains and to determine their molecular composition. The presence of, for instance, terpenes and terpenoids would permit a further identification as plant resin (Cnuts, Perrault, et al 2018;Langenheim 2003;Regert 2004). This characterization is part of an ongoing study.…”