Multi-analytical approach for an archaeometric study on orichalcum coins

• DOI: 10.3301/rol.2022.01
• Publication Date: 2022-03-07T16:23:40Z
• Authors: Melania Di Fazio
• Keywords: Cementation (geology); Archaeological Science

Orichalcum is a Cu-Zn based alloy known since the 1st millennium BC. The cementation was ancient technique used for its production. PhD project here presented aimed to characterise this and evaluate degradation: purpose, non-destructive, nano-invasive destructive techniques were on collection of coins issued from century BC end AD. In particular, multi-analytical approach used: investigate patinas their corrosive patterns, study microstructures degradation, describe dezincification process grouping by emission. addition, quantitative analyses allowed complete characterization alloy. review previous theories dating samples in orichalcum. This wanted contribute current knowledge Roman coinage attempt mechanisms processes affecting alloys.