Keyword: «tusk structure»

Structural studies of fossil mammoth bone (FMB) have been carried out using modern instrumental methods of analysis. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the structure of a mammoth tusk is shown and elemental analysis is performed. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed the quantitative composition of the studied tusk sample: external adsorbed moisture – 4.9%, collagen – 27.5%, hydroxyapatite – 67.5%. Using X-ray phase analysis, it was found that during the heat treatment of a mammoth tusk, the structure of its mineral part is transformed from apatite to whitlockite. IR spectroscopic studies revealed the entire complex of functional groups of tusk components. The results of studies on the study of resistance to destruction with various approaches to the preservation of FMB are presented. The main criteria that ensure the best preservation of the FMB are determined: stability of temperature and atmospheric humidity, the presence of protection from precipitation and UV radiation.