Stieghorst, C.MLZ* ; Revay, Z.MLZ*

2017

Abstract: Instrumental neutron activation techniques such as prompt gamma activation analysis (PGAA) and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) are well-suited for archaeometrical applications. A bundle of advantages make these methods attractive for archaeometry and cultural heritage, for instance low destructiveness, straightforward sample preparation and good detection limits for many elements. Panoramic bulk analysis of the elemental sample composition is ideal for provenance studies of various materials. Due to the fact that PGAA and INAA are complementary for several elements, a combination of both methods is used to further increase the number of the detectable elements. This can help to distinguish geologically similar deposits, which are very close to each other. At the PGAA facility of the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) we have various archaeometry and cultural heritage projects. (1) Provenance studies of Gallo-Roman limestone objects of the Rhine-Main-Moselle area allow an insight into the ancient transport system, the history of quarrying and the reutilization of building material in the later times (so-called spoils). (2) The measurement of the chlorine content in archaeological iron objects is important for conservation-restoration, due to the fact that these objects often suffer from chloride induced post excavation corrosion. The effectiveness of different approaches to remove the chlorine was tested at our facility. (3) Another project is about reverse engineering of ancient aqueduct systems in the Mediterranean area. It is possible to get information about the (re-)construction and operation history of these systems by analyzing the variations of the elemental composition in the layering of the sinter material, because modifications in the system lead to changes in the water composition and further in the sinter composition as well. Variations of the elemental composition in the layering of sinter material were measured with a narrow collimated beam (stripe profile of 2-3 mm thickness).We will give an overview about the results of these current projects and present some new developments at the PGAA facility and their potential use in archaeometry.

Keyword(s): Earth, Environment and Cultural Heritage (1st) ; Archaeology/Museums/Arts (2nd) ; Instrument and Method Development (2nd)

1. DOMUSER (DOMUSER)
2. PGAA (PGAA)

1. PGAA: Prompt gamma activation analysis (NL4b)