Statistical evaluation of data obtained by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) for archaeological copper ingots

摘要: Abstract ICP-AES was used for the quantitative determination of copper and accompanying elements (As, Ag, Bi, Co, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Sn, Zn) that are present as impurities in plano-convex ingots from seven late bronze age hoards Slovenia. Principal component analysis (PCA) multi-dimensional data evaluation visualisation points reduced two-dimensional space. From analytical PCA results, it has been concluded iron well arsenic, to a less extent nickel antimony, most relevant variables differentiation between ingots. Furthermore, on basis relationship object position space its elemental composition established. The information obtained by transformation allowed us make some hypotheses about possible multi-stage smelting process ore types ancient production. We also show that, general, there no significant differences among different Slovenian locations.