Citation: Ying Ma, Gang Liu, Fen Wang, Heng Zhang, Shiling Yuan. Application of Modern Chemical Instrumental Analysis in Archaeological Research: a Case of the Iceman[J]. University Chemistry, ;2026, 41(4): 222-230. doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202506003 shu

Application of Modern Chemical Instrumental Analysis in Archaeological Research: a Case of the Iceman

Ying Ma ¹ ,
Gang Liu ¹ ,
Fen Wang ² ,
Heng Zhang ^1,, ,
Shiling Yuan ^1,,

1.
School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, Shandong Province, China;
2.
School of Archaeology, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, Shandong Province, China

Corresponding author: Heng Zhang, Shiling Yuan,
Received Date: 3 June 2025
Accepted Date: 25 June 2025

The paper takes the study of Ötzi the Iceman, currently the world's oldest known natural mummy, as a case study. It provides a detailed introduction to the application of various chemical analysis techniques-including radiocarbon (¹⁴C) dating, isotopic analysis, elemental analysis, organic residue analysis, and microscopic analysis-in researching Ötzi's chronological age, birthplace, living areas, and prehistoric technologies. The study demonstrates the significant application value of chemical methodologies in archaeological research.
- Chemistry,
- Archaeology,
- Interdisciplinary,
- Iceman Ötzi
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