MIT researchers use CT scans to unravel mysteries of early metal production
Using CT Scan Technology in Archaeology
MIT researchers are adapting medical CT scan technology to study ancient artifacts without damaging them. By creating detailed 3D images of archaeological materials, scientists can look inside objects that would otherwise need to be cut open. This non-invasive method preserves rare historical samples while revealing hidden internal structures.
Understanding Early Metal Production Through Slag
Slag, the waste left behind after metal smelting, is a key source of information about early metallurgy. Although it appears useless at first glance, slag contains chemical and structural clues about how ancient people extracted metals like copper. Studying slag helps researchers reconstruct early production techniques and technological knowledge.
Discoveries from Bronze Age Smelting Sites
The research focused on slag samples from early Bronze Age sites, including locations in present-day Iran. These sites date back more than 5,000 years and represent some of the earliest known metal-producing communities. CT scans help scientists understand how these early societies mastered complex smelting processes with limited tools.
Revealing Hidden Metal Droplets and Gas Bubbles
CT imaging allows researchers to detect tiny metal droplets trapped inside slag, as well as bubbles formed by gases during smelting. These features provide insight into furnace temperatures, airflow, and efficiency. The presence of trapped metal suggests how skilled early metallurgists were and how much material may have been lost during production.
Impact on the Future of Archaeological Research
This innovative approach is changing how archaeologists and materials scientists study ancient technology. By combining modern imaging techniques with traditional analysis, researchers can gain more accurate results while preserving artifacts. The method could be applied to many other ancient materials, opening new paths for understanding human technological evolution.
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