The use of synchrotron radiation in archaeometry: basics and examples

Martin Radkte

Archaeometry is an emergent field in materials science with an increasing demand of access to synchrotron radiation (SR) based techniques such as X-ray imaging, X-ray Diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and IR spectroscopy. These methods allow the characterization of specific features or fingerprints of the materials that are often comprised of trace element compositions or the presence of particular minor phases that can be for instance, used as a marker of the provenance of a material or a distinct fabrication technique. In this contribution especially the use of SR for the analysis of ancient gold objects using X-ray fluorescence (SRXRF) is presented. After an introduction to the properties of SR the results for measurements at the Sky Disc of Nebra, the Berlin Gold hat and the Hiddensee treasure are discussed. Additional examples for other techniques, e.g. XANES and CT will be presented.

At the end an outlook of new developments will be given.

The class will be divided in the following sections:

Origin and properties of synchrotron radiation
Basics of X-ray fluorescence
Other SR based techniques
Characterization of Gold with SR
Examples for the use of SR in art and archaeology
Conclusion and outlook