Geochemical Surveys
Geochemical surveys analyse soil samples collected from archaeological sites for subtle physical and chemical variations. These variations can often suggest archaeological and anthropogenic activities, and complement both excavated evidence and geophysical surveys.
Geochemical analysis can be used as both a prospection tool and to further our understanding of excavated archaeological sites. The systematic collection of topsoil samples across a survey area can identify previously unknown features and zones suggestive of archaeological remains using phosphate and magnetic susceptibility analysis. For post-excavation research, geochemical analysis can be used to determine the possible function of a feature from individual soil samples, by identifying important diagnostic indicators which are not often appreciable to the naked eye. These include the ability to detect refuse dumping, cess-pits, metallurgical and industrial activity, cooking sites and animal husbandry.
Geochemical soil samples can be collected by Earthsound technicians or by archaeological site staff. Each sample needs to be collected under controlled conditions to avoid potential cross-contamination - we can advise you on how best to achieve this and which technique(s) is appropriate to answer your project requirements.
We can carry out the following laboratory analysis:
- Carbonate analysis
- Heavy Metal analysis
- Loss on Ignition analysis (organic content)
- Magnetic Susceptibility content
- Particle Size analysis
- Phosphate analysis
- pH analysis