Characterisation of Early Bronze Age metalwork using Neutron Tomography

Neutron Tomography will allow us to analyse casting techniques used for British Early Bronze Age copper-alloy implements, namely axes and daggers, by visualising casting flow. This will inform us about potential mould types that were used, as well as the current state of corrosion within the artefact. Creating three-dimensional models of the interiors of the artefact will also allow us to map this as well as metal distribution in the artefact. It is hoped that the results of this experiment will significantly improve our understanding of Early Bronze Age metalworking manufacturing techniques and their relationship with craft-traditions and skills.