Archaeological Materials Science

A primary research theme of the Archaeomaterials Group is the investigation of the production technology of ancient materials, including porcelain, ceramics and metals, with a view to understanding how a new technology was discovered, why it was adopted and why particular technological choices were made. From a theoretical perspective, we are interested in the social aspects of technological change, and the role of material objects in society.

We are also engaged in research into the degradation of materials, and more generally in scientific aspects conservation. This work includes both theoretical and practical work on the alteration of glass (including microtephras), and on the whole question of the scientific underpinning of preservation in situ. We are particularly interested in geochemical modeling of the interaction between a buried archaeological object and its burial environment. We are also engaged in research into the effects of mixed salt solutions on salt degradation of building stone.

Another long-standing research theme is the petrographic study of ancient earthenware ceramic fabrics from specific archaeological contexts in order to extend our understanding of their trade and exchange, as well as the technological choices made in their production. Recent and current studies include Byzantine brittleware cooking pots from Syria, Neolithic pottery from Turkmenistan, Bronze Age to Iron Age gabbroic pottery from Cornwall, and Neolithic pottery from Niah Cave, Sarawak.

Through our collaboration with the Pigmentum Project, we are also active in the history of pigment use, and more generally in the field of technological art history.