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  • Natural asphalt on Late Neo...
    Connan, J.; Elezi, G.; Engel, M.H.; Zumberge, A.

    Journal of archaeological science, reports, February 2024, 2024-02-00, Letnik: 53
    Journal Article

    Nine archaeological bituminous potsherds from the Neolithic of Maliq and Kamnik (5000–4500 BCE) in Albania were geochemically compared for the first time to four natural asphalts from the famous present-day mine of Selenicë. The bitumen on potsherds originates from Selenicë, a unique source in Albania and the southern Balkans. Carbon isotopes on the asphaltene chromatographic fraction confirm that the bitumen on the potsherds came from Selenicë. Carbon and hydrogen isotopes on saturates, aromatics, NSO, and asphaltenes show changes that may be due to biodegradation-oxidation effects and also the occurrence of organic remains from the content of the vessels mixed with bitumens. Steranes, terpanes, and aromatics confirm the increased biodegradation of bitumen on potsherds when compared to natural asphalts references.