La tomodensitométrie en archéologie

Abstract

The use of tomodensitometry in Archaeology allows to image the internal and external structure of an artefact. The non-destructive nature and the accuracy of this technique opens new perspectives in the archaeological field, allowing, among others, to define and understand the « chaine opératoire » and characterize the materials used, study their degradation, and better understand the taphonomy of an archaeological excavation. Yet, tomodensitometry allowed to recognize the different types of forms applied to metals, to characterize inclusions or the input of other material during recycling or handling. Its application on ceramic or glass has revealed manufacturing methods, weaknesses in the structures, different pasta or temper used. In short, this method provides quantitative and qualitative parameters of the materials used and their environment.

Keywords

• tomodensitometry
• artifact
• characterization
• manufacturing methods
• materials
• taphonomy