Forensic Exploration of the Mechanical Properties of Basalt Grains in Earthenware. (15th August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Braekmans, Dennis; Broekman, Max; Grashof, Bernd; Oudshoorn, Max; Uittenbroek, Lennard; Jacobs, Loe
• Is Part Of: Archaeological and environmental forensic science. Volume 1:Number 2(2017)
• Page Start: 149
• Page End: 160
• Publication Date: 2018-08-15
• Subjects: fracture toughness -- basalt temper -- levant -- ancient ceramics -- experimental archaeology; Forensic archaeology -- Periodicals; Forensic anthropology -- Periodicals; Forensic taphonomy -- Periodicals; 930.1028
• DOI: 10.1558/aefs.37082
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2052-3378

Abstract

Abstract : The overall goal of this project is to contribute to reconstruct the innovation mechanisms and development of ceramic production using forensic engineering techniques. Instead of optimizing materials as a driver in modern engineering, here we wish to use these methodologies, but aim to solve questions on advancement in the past fabrication process-and thus ultimately understand the key issues of a less or (un)successful design and subsequent improvement. This article wishes to address the advantages and constraints regarding to use of basalt in ceramic matrices. By utilizing a standardised set of different test bars comprising different amounts of basalt fired at both 800°C and 1000°C, it can be concluded basalt tempered ceramics have a higher fracture toughness when compared to quartz enriched materials. It is therefore plausible to identify basalt as a good temper material for (ancient) earthenwares in terms of thermal (shock) activities.