PIXE analysis of prehistoric and protohistoric Caborn-Welborn phase copper artifacts from the lower Ohio River Valley

Particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) spectrometry is being used to nondestructively determine the elemental composition of copper-based artifacts excavated from prehistoric/protohistoric sites in the Ohio River Valley. Copper objects from Caborn-Welborn (C-W) and contemporary Fort Ancient sites are being studied so as to differentiate between native American and European copper. The trace element analysis of metal artifacts enables archaeologists to more accurately assess the material culture and chronological development of C-W society (A.D. 1400-1700) with particular reference to geological sources of copper and brass. (author)