New Paper

New paper

Rhys started his PhD work in 2017 and one of the things that was always at the forefront of our thinking, was the impact was bones diagenesis.. diagenesis is so complex, but this is one paper that helps pull together variable which impact.. so really pleased it is finally out..

Bone Diagenesis and Extremes of Preservation in Forensic Science
Abstract: Understanding the composition and diagenetic processes of the deposition environment is pivotal to understanding why bone undergoes preservation or diagenesis. This research explores the complex nexus of diagenesis at the extremes of preservation, via the interdependent chemical, and short- and long-term microbial processes that influence diagenesis. These processes include dissolution, ion exchange, hydrolysis, recrystallisation, waterlogging, acidity and alkalinity, soil composition, redox potential, bacterial activity, and microbiome composition. Diagenetic processes are discussed in relation to typical sites and sites with extremes of preservation. Understanding site conditions that impact diagenetic processes is critical to understanding the visual features presented in recovered skeletal material, ensuring an appropriate post-mortem interval is assigned, and for subsequent post hoc analysis of bone.

Bone Diagenesis and Extremes of Preservation in Forensic Science