oa Chemical Characterization of Amber from Lusitanian Basin, Western Portugal

Amber, formed from fossilized plant resin over millions of years, presents a challenge for chemical analysis due to its complex composition. This study examines amber samples from the Lusitanian Basin in Portugal, which were collected from three locations: Picoto-Seadoro, Portela da Vila, and Vale Cortiço. To identify and quantify compounds, employed gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

The results showed that the amber samples primarily consisted of monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and diterpenoids. Five compounds were found in all three samples, including Ionene, 18-Norabieta-8,11,13-triene, and Podocarpa-8,11,13-triene, which suggest common features in the resin’s chemical composition or shared environmental conditions during amber formation. Notably, Podocarpa-8,11,13-triene, associated with gymnosperms, was abundant in some samples, further supporting the idea of a gymnosperm-related origin for the amber.

The chemical composition varied across the samples, with the Portela da Vila sample containing the most compounds and showing similarities to the Picoto-Seadoro sample. The differences in composition among the samples indicate variations in fossilization conditions and local vegetation, providing insights into the regional geology and amber formation processes in Portugal.

In conclusion, the study highlights distinct mass spectra and chemical profiles in the amber samples, offering valuable information for comparative studies of amber from different regions worldwide.