Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy: Evaluation as a non- destructive technique for studying the degradation of human hair from archaeological and forensic environments

Abstract

Fourier transform (FT) Raman spectroscopy was evaluated as a non-destructive analytical tool for assessing the degradative state of archaeological and forensic hair samples. This work follows the successful application of FT-Raman spectroscopy to studies of both modern hair and ancient keratotic biopolymers, such as mummified skin. Fourteen samples of terminal scalp hair from 13 disparate depositional environments were analysed for evidence of structural alteration. Degradative change was evidenced by alteration to the amide I and III modes near 1651 and 1128 cm−1, respectively, and loss of definition to the (CC) skeletal backbone and the impact of environmental contaminants was noted.