MCF fast derivatization procedure for the identification of resinous deposit components from the inner walls of roman age amphorae by GC-MS.

Resinous deposits from the inner walls of Roman age amphorae have been analysed by GC-MS. A simple dissolution of the sample in chloroform was carried out without any previous treatment of the sample. A new method for derivatization of carboxylic groups in these type of compounds was tested using methylchloroformate (MCF) in the optima conditions, giving good results with a short derivatization time. Some diterpenoid components of conifer resin have been identified, as well as other monoterpenoid components of essential oils. Results obtained allowed to know the nature and origin of these resinous deposits and the early Roman age technological practices in Spain.