Non-destructive phase analysis of archaeological ceramics using TOF neutron diffraction

Mineral phase analysis of ancient ceramics carried out by neutron diffracti on yields complementary information to X-ray diffraction analysis. Since ne utrons are highly penetrating, neutron diffraction in general allows non-de structive investigations of bulk samples rather than of surface layers or p owdered material. This means complete, intact specimens can be studied. A t ime-of-flight (TOF) neutron diffractometer offers additional advantages con sidering experimental set-up, accommodation of large objects and data colle ction times. First test measurements with respect to archaeometric applicat ions have been performed on different fragments of medieval Rhenish pottery using the TOF neutron diffractometer ROTAX at the spallation source ISIS, U.K. Phase fractions obtained from a Rhenish stoneware jar fragment compare well with those from a powder sample prepared from the same fragment. This finding indicates that reliable results can be obtained by illuminating a large piece or even a complete ceramic object without causing damage. Copyr ight 2001 Academic Press