Infrared and Isotope data from cremated human remains

This dataset contains the infrared and isotopic data obtained from recently deceased cremated individuals of known residential history from the UTK Donated Skeletal Collection curated by the Forensic Anthropology Center (Knoxville, Tennessee). By carrying out these measurements on different bones with different turnover rates (i.e., otic capsule of the petrous part of the temporal bone, femur, and rib), we endeavor to reconstruct life histories of recently deceased cremated individuals and gain new insights into cremation practices. The results highlight differences in carbon and oxygen isotopes between different skeletal elements and confirm their potential to gather information about the way a body was burned (e.g. temperatures, fuel used). Strontium concentrations and isotope ratios were also measured to assess the geographical origin of these individuals. The use of strontium isotope ratios, however, seem to have limitations for individuals born in the last few decades due to globalization of consumed food resources.