An analytical approach based on X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry to characterize Egyptian embalming materials

► An analytical approach based on XRD, FTIR and GC/MS was used to characterize Egyptian embalming materials. ► The results show that the embalming materials consisted of complex mixtures of natural organic products such as beeswax, pine pitch, mastic resin and castor oil. ► FTIR analyses identify calcium oxalates, phosphates and carbonates while XRD patterns confirm the crystalline nature of both phosphates and oxalates.