Investigating the viability of electrochemiluminescence for archaeological material analysis: a pilot study

Archaeometry is a challenging field that requires scientific methodologies to conduct archaeological analysis. Electroanalytical methods have been used in archaeometry for over a century, but recent advances in electrochemistry have yet to be fully integrated into the field. The emergence of new electroanalytical techniques, such as electrochemiluminescence (ECL), offer the potential for increased sensitivity and non-destructive analysis of solid samples. Here, we present the first pilot study to investigate the feasibility of voltammetry of immobilised particles (VIMP) ECL for the analysis of archaeological fibrous quids. We successfully demonstrate the ability of VIMP ECL to be employed as qualitative analysis method, which when paired with statistical analysis and cultural context, allows for the identification of Datura wrightii within archaeological quid samples. Our results demonstrate that VIMP ECL can be used to analyse solid samples with minimum destruction. These findings highlight the potential of ECL as a successful tool in archaeometry, particularly for the analysis of solid-state samples. This study provides a strong proof-of-concept for the potential of VIMP ECL to enhance the capabilities of archaeometry and opens up new avenues of research in the field.