Research
Research collaborations
Dr Matthew Ponting
RACOM - Rome and the Coinages of the Mediterranean 200 BCE - 64 CE
Archaeometallurgical analyses of twenty Roman silver coins are being conducted using SEM-EDS to investigate surface composition and microstructural features. These data provide insight into manufacturing processes, including surface enrichment and alloy composition. To complement Dr Matthew Ponting’s analytical work, LA-ICP-MS is being carried out by Dr Nicola George to obtain high-resolution spatial elemental data. This minimally destructive technique enables deeper compositional profiling across coin surfaces and cross-sections, supporting interpretations of minting technologies, refining processes, and potential evidence of recycling or debasement.
Manx Museum
Analyses of Silver Ingots
Scientific analysis of the ingot was undertaken using both p-X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF) and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) to characterise its elemental composition. The results confirmed a silver content exceeding 88%, meeting the threshold for classification as Treasure under Manx legislation. Non-destructive and minimally invasive techniques were employed to ensure the object’s physical integrity was preserved throughout the process, while allowing for high-resolution elemental data collection. The findings directly supported curatorial and legal determinations, enabling the ingot’s accession into the national collection. This collaboration highlights the value of integrating archaeometric analysis within heritage workflows, particularly in the assessment of early medieval material culture. https://manxnationalheritage.im/news/treasure-island-isle-of-man-viking-ingot-declared-treasure/
English Heritage
Old Oswestry
The Old Oswestry Metallurgical Report is a collaborative archaeometallurgical investigation authored by Dr. N. George and J. Poole, conducted through the Professor Elizabeth Slater Archaeological Research Laboratories at the University of Liverpool. The report presents a compositional and microstructural analysis of two brass artefacts of unknown date and function. Using non-destructive imaging, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), the study identifies the elemental makeup and manufacturing techniques of each object. Results show high zinc content (approximately 29%) and low impurities, indicating refined brass produced via a post-medieval cementation process. Microstructural evidence, including dendritic structures and annealing twins, suggests different production methods: one object was cast with minimal working, while the other underwent cold-working and annealing. Despite previous hypotheses linking the artefacts to Iron Age activity at Old Oswestry, the chemical composition and metallurgical features strongly suggest a later date, possibly from the 16th century onwards. The objects, though of uncertain function, were designed to affix to a larger item, potentially decorative fittings for organic materials. The collaboration combined archaeological expertise with scientific analysis to reinterpret the chronology and technological context of the artefacts, contributing new insight into historical brass production and challenging assumptions about early metallurgy at the site.
Shropshire Museum
Wem - 4th/5th Century Hacksilver Hoard
This project is a collaborative analytical investigation with Dr Matthew Ponting, contributing Master’s students, Dr Roger White from the University of Birmingham, and Shropshire Museums. The study examines 336 artefacts from the WEM assemblage, including 79 coins, 106 ingots, 32 vessels, 48 dress accessories, and 80 miscellaneous objects. The investigation uses a multi-method analytical framework to maximise insight into composition, manufacturing, and technological choices, while prioritising object conservation. Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) is being applied to the non-coin assemblage for initial compositional triage. Smaller items and gilded objects are being further analysed via SEM-EDS to detect elements such as mercury and confirm surface chemistry. Selected objects are also being imaged using Keyence digital microscopy to support visual documentation. A major focus of the study is the analysis of 106 ingots. Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) is used on minimally polished surfaces to gather microstructural and compositional data. A selected subset of these ingots will undergo further examination through optical microscopy and full cross-sectional SEM analysis. These tests will investigate the effects of working, annealing, and casting techniques, as well as the potential for surface enrichment. Dr Nicola George is conducting LA-ICP-MS analyses across the entire assemblage, offering minimally destructive insights into alloy composition and trace elements. These data address key questions about material sourcing, recycling, and the technological coherence of the hoard. Additional MP-AES work supports bulk compositional analysis. This research will form the basis of a monograph.
National Museums Liverpool
Treasure: History Unearthed. North West Treasure Exhibition
Significant contribution to regional culture through analyses for National Museums Liverpool Northwest Treasure Exhibition.