Study of decorated archeological ceramics by micro X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy

Micro-X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF) spectrometry is an analytical technique that is especially suitable for the study of archeological findings since it is non-destructive, rapid, universal, versatile and multi-elemental. In the present work a compact portable μ-XRF spectrometer was used to characterize decorated sherds of Neolithic pottery from Polyplatanos, North Greece. The sherds were divided into four decorative groups (crusted, classic Dimini, cream on red, and black on red) and the characterization was focused on the determination of certain major, minor and trace elements (Si, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni) on the decorated surface and in the clay body. The aim of this characterization was to supplement and confirm archeological information regarding the origin of the artifacts and the manufacturing techniques used for their production. The most predominant chemical elements were determined, and representative ratios (Ca/K, Fe/Mn) were calculated and compared for each individual sample group. The crusted samples and the cream on red samples showed higher concentrations of Ca in the white-crusted surface in comparison with the clay body while Fe was the predominant element in the red decorated surface. The analysis of the samples of classic Dimini, revealed higher concentrations of Mn in the black painted surfaces and higher Ca content in the light-coloured clay bodies. Finally, most samples of the black on red group present high concentrations of Mn in their decoration surface. Zn and Ni were also detected in this group in contrast with the remaining groups.