Abstract
The period of date of death of an elephant can be assessed by analyzing four different radionuclides, C-14, Sr-90, Th-228 and Th-232 in its ivory. These nuclides are supposed to have variing concentrations at different parts of a tusk. The reason is the procedure of growth which takes place at the butt-site of a tusk. Therefore the site of sampling could have a big influence on the assessed date ...
Abstract
The period of date of death of an elephant can be assessed by analyzing four different radionuclides, C-14, Sr-90, Th-228 and Th-232 in its ivory. These nuclides are supposed to have variing concentrations at different parts of a tusk. The reason is the procedure of growth which takes place at the butt-site of a tusk. Therefore the site of sampling could have a big influence on the assessed date of death. However, to find out if the position of sampling is important a complete tusk was analyzed regarding the distribution of these nuclides. Results show that the concentration activity of C-14 and Th-228 varies in different parts of a tusk. The activity concentration of Sr-90 is very similar in all analyzed parts. The conclusion is that sampling at the butt of a tusk is recommended for age assessment.
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