Date Approved
2009
Degree Type
Open Access Senior Honors Thesis
Department or School
Chemistry
Abstract
A vital step to radiocarbon dating rock paintings involves the characterization of organic material in the paint. Using THM-GC-MS we have created a library of mass spectrometric data on possible organic binders, to compare to authentic paint samples. To reduce interference from contaminants and the mineral background, we are developing a simple purification technique to extract proteins and carbohydrates from these samples. Separating the organics can greatly enhance our results for GC-MS identification and subsequent radiocarbon analysis by accelerator mass spectroscopy.
Recommended Citation
Doolin, Melissa, "Qualitative THM-GC-MS analysis of proteins and amino acids in rock painting binders" (2009). Senior Honors Theses and Projects. 213.
https://commons.emich.edu/honors/213