Investigating the Past: a combined study with XRDCT and micro-CT on ancient ceramic fragments

A single ceramic fragment contains information on geographical origin as well as on the technological and firing processes of an artifac. This experiment aims to study ceramic fragments by acquiring X-ray tomographic and diffractometric data in synchronous to visualize the presence of phases associated with specific domains of the ceramic body. These data will be useful to reconstruct homogeneity and inhomogeneity formed during the firing process and to visualize the neoformation phases related to the circulation of fluids within the sample. Coupling the tomographic technique on the same fragments, we will be able to evaluate fractures, pores and voids to determine the state of preservation, isorientation of the crystalline phases and the mutual relationship between amorphous and crystalline components. The analyses will be carried out on ceramic fragments from archaeological sites in Italy, providing new analytical protocols for the study and conservation of the archaeological finds.