The effects of PVAc treatment and organic solvent removal on δ13C, δ15N, and δ18O values of collagen and hydroxyapatite in a modern bone

The stable isotopic analysis of archaeological and paleontological bones has become a common method to examine questions of ecology, climate, and physiology. As researchers addressing such questions incorporate museum collections in their studies, it is necessary to understand the isotopic effects of common preservation techniques utilized in such collections to ensure the preservation of original isotopic values. This study examines the effects of PVAc glue (polyvinyl acetate) applied in acetone solution and the subsequent removal of PVAc using various organic solvents on the δ13C and δ15N values of extracted bone collagen, the δ13C and δ18O values of carbonate in bone hydroxyapatite, and the δ18O values of phosphate in hydroxyapatite. The data demonstrate that isotopic values in the collagen and phosphate are unaffected by any combination of PVAc treatment and solvent application. The carbonates show little variation in δ13C values, but exhibit variable δ18O values upon exposure to the PVAc solution. It is here suggested that δ18O values from carbonates in PVAc-treated bones do not retain an original isotopic value and should not be included in future studies.

► We examine effects of PVAc glue and solvent removal on stable isotopes in bone.
► Isotope values in bone collagen are unaffected by PVAc and solvents.
► Isotope values in hydroxyapatite phosphate are unaffected by PVAc and solvents.
► Carbon isotopes in hydroxyapatite carbonate are unaffected by PVAc and solvents.
► Oxygen isotopes in hydroxyapatite carbonate show variability when exposed to PVAc.