Introduction to micro-residues analysis: Systematic use of Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy Dispersive X-rays Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) on Patagonian raw materials

Abstract

Residue analysis is commonly applied to stone tools functional identification and is often used in conjunction with micro-wear analysis for understanding their past function and also early human behaviour. In spite of their important contribution in archaeological contexts, these studies present drawbacks in their application, since they require an exceptional state of conservation, as well as a correct identification by the observer. In this sense, actualistic studies are needed for a better residues characterization. Therefore, the following work explores the usefulness of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as a tool to provide a better morphological and compositional identification of micro-residues on Patagonian raw materials. The residue analysis is a methodology rarely used on the studies of lithic technologies in Argentina so this paper constitutes a first approach to the main micro-structural features; distribution and elemental composition of micro-residues on stone tools using EDX spectra. The main results obtained from analytical experiments using SEM-EDX analysis improves the worked material identification and explore the possibility to apply this methodology at the Deseado massif's archaeological record.