LADICIM applies materials science to the study of archaeological heritage
The Archaeometry and Heritage Unit has been collaborating for more than 30 years with archaeologists and researchers to analyze historical pieces using advanced non-destructive techniques
Archeology has found in materials science an essential ally to understand the past. Beyond excavations, the application of advanced technologies allows us to reveal key information that lies hidden in ancient objects. From its chemical composition to the manufacturing techniques used by our ancestors or the alteration processes suffered over time.
For more than three decades, the Laboratory of the Division of Materials Science and Engineering (LADICIM) of the University of Cantabria has collaborated with archaeologists and heritage researchers in the analysis of historical assets. This alliance between science and humanities has its own name: Archaeometry and Heritage Unit.
Through an interdisciplinary approach, which combines archaeological analysis with the use of advanced techniques like the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the computerized axial micro-tomography (µ-TAC), This department has become a fundamental resource for the study of pieces without compromising its integrity.n
LADICIM’s collaboration with the field of archeology began in the early 90s, as the doctor recalls Jesus Setien, Professor of Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering at UC and head of the Unit. “The archeology professor Miguel Cisneros established the first contact with our laboratory to analyze rusty nails from an old shipyard“.
Since then, the collaboration between materials engineers and archaeologists has evolved to become a key support for archaeological research. All this under one dynamic interdisciplinary in which each specialist contributes their knowledge. Most of the studies have focused on Cantabria, where the Laboratory is based, with research that has allowed us to systematically analyze materials that could not previously be studied in the region. However, this work has also crossed borders, with work carried out in other autonomous communities and in international projects.
Advanced technology for the study of the past
LADICIM uses advanced methodologies to analyze a great diversity of archaeological materials, from metals and ceramics to seashells, coins and even human remains. Among the most used techniques is the microscopy electronics barrido (WITHOUT), which allows obtaining high-resolution images and performing chemical analyzes without damaging the parts. “The SEM microscope is an essential tool in our work because it allows us to observe and determine the composition of materials at a micrometric scale, which offers immense potential for research,” says Setién.
Another tool key is the axial micro-tomography computerized (µ-TAC), which generates three-dimensional reconstructions from the interior of archaeological pieces without the need to manipulate them, a fundamental advantage in the study of objects of high historical value.
The doctor and researcher Ana Cimentada plays a key role thanks to its experience in the preparation and handling of samples and their subsequent observation and analysis. Recently, the Laboratory has received two boulders, one with a drawing of an hour, to determine its authenticity. The lack of traceability raises questions about whether the piece is from the Paleolithic or a modern forgery. “Through pigment analysis and µ-CT, We seek to verify its authenticity without altering the piece, observing its internal structure and detecting possible differences in the materials used,” he explains.
Scientific data to interpret history
The Advanced techniques have been used in numerous works, such as the study of metal objects from the Museum of Prehistory of Cantabria (2005), among them axes, daggers, swords, which made it possible to determine their composition and classify their manufacturing technology; the characterization of Roman mosaic and glass tesserae to identify its chemical composition; or the study of ochers used in rock art to identify its geological origin and provide information on painting techniques used in different periods.
However, the work in the Archaeometry and Heritage Unit goes beyond technical analysis. LADICIM researchers collaborate closely with archaeologists in the interpretation of the results. “We carry out the analyzes and contribute our experience in the interpretation of the data obtained. We deliver the results, resolve doubts and facilitate your understanding”, explains Dr. Jesús Setién.
One of the most unique cases is related to a study on Visigoth burials. The Laboratory received fragments of ribs, skulls and samples of stomach contents. The objective was to determine the diet of these individuals through the identification of mineral remains and organic compounds preserved in the bones and stomach. These analyses, carried out using non-destructive techniques, have allowed us to obtain information about the eating habits of these communities and their relationship with the environment, without altering the integrity of the remains.
LADICIM has also developed various investigations on seashells to understand their use and value as natural records of the past. In some studies, wear marks have been analyzed to determine if they were used during the Paleolithic as tools to process pigments or drill materials.
In other work, the lab examined a shell fossil found in the Strait of Gibraltar region. “We analyze the growth of calcium carbonate crystals, the main component of its structure. Variations in this growth can reveal information about possible climate changes or extreme events in the past”, explains Cimentada.
Boosting heritage research in Cantabria
The collaboration between LADICIM and the field of archeology has had a significant impact on heritage research in Cantabria. The professor of Prehistory at the UC Pablo Arias, awarded in 2021 with the II National Prize for Archeology, highlights how this alliance has transformed the study of archaeological materials in the region. “Our collaboration with LADICIM arose from the need to analyze the composition of metallic objects from the Chalcolithic and the Bronze Age from the Museum of Archeology of Cantabria. Previously, analyzes were performed with destructive methods that they implied taking physical samples of the pieces, something we wanted to avoid. The collaboration allowed us to carry out these studies in Cantabria, avoiding complicated transfers and preserving the integrity of the objects,” he explains.
Arias recognizes that this alliance has opened new avenues of research, allowing the publication of numerous scientific articles and facilitating the participation of researchers from different generations in the work. “Access to LADICIM techniques has boosted our research, since it allows us to systematically study archaeological materials and organize internships with master’s studentsr in Prehistory and Archaeology”.
More than three decades of collaboration with archaeologists and researchers reflect LADICIM’s commitment to the analysis and interpretation of historical materials, offering tools that allow us to better understand the past and facilitate its conservation for the future. “This area of our work is of great interest to us and we consider it a relevant service for the scientific community”, concludes Jesús Setién.
Engineering and archeology working together to reveal, through technology and knowledge, the secrets of history.
