Work

Urine on the Shelves

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT For 15 years, the University of Idaho has conducted chemical testing of excavated materials from historical sites throughout North America. The most common artifacts tested are sealed containers. Some come from current excavations, but most are from repository shelves. The immediate purpose of the archaeochemistry work is twofold: to identify the contents of the containers for researchers and to provide training for students in analytical chemistry. After testing more than 500 items, project personnel have recognized some unexpected outcomes that have implications for institutions housing the artifacts. Specifically, tested materials identified the small, yet consistent, presence of certain artifacts that can have health implications for personnel working with the items. The article concludes with general guidance on identifying and assessing those risks.

Source: Advances in Archaeological Practice

DOI: 10.1017/aap.2023.24

Authors: Mark S. Warner, Ray von Wandruszka

Institution: University of Idaho

Language: English

Topic: Cultural Heritage Materials Analysis

Subfield: Archeology

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,255

Funders: University of Montana, Idaho Transportation Department, Burke Museum, University of Washington, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers