Further Evaluation of Fluoride Dating by Ion Selective Electrode Analysis

Abstract

Fluoride dating by ion selective electrode (ISE) analysis is a viable relative dating technique for dense cortical bone from archaeological sites. The fluoride content of cortical bone and rate of absorption is directly related to the porosity and microstructure of the sample and post-depositional environmental variables including the CaF2 content of the bedrock, soil, and changes in groundwater levels, flow rates, and chemical composition. Dense diaphyseal cortical bone from homogenous sediment contexts exposed to consistent groundwater chemistry through time is the best sample for fluoride dating by the ISE technique. Teeth should not be used as samples for fluoride dating because differences in the porosity and permeability of enamel can produce wide variations in composition.