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The classification and interpretation of tin smelting remains from South West England. A study of the microstructure and chemical composition of tin smelting slags from Devon and Cornwall, and the effect of technological developments upon the character of slags.
Malham, Albertine
Malham, Albertine
Publication Date
2010
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The University of Bradford theses are licenced under a Creative Commons Licence.
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Accepted for publication
Institution
University of Bradford
Department
Department of Archaeological Sciences
Awarded
2010
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Abstract
Artefacts relating to tin smelting from tin mills or ¿blowing houses¿ in Devon and
Cornwall, plus material from smelting sites that cover a range of dates from the Bronze
Age through to the 19th Century, were examined: these include metallic tin, furnace
linings, ore samples and slag.
Analysis of tin slags from over forty sites was carried out, to determine microstructure
and chemical composition. Techniques employed included optical and scanning electron
microscopy, X-ray fluorescence and ICP mass spectrometry. Analysis indicates that
slag appearance and composition are heavily influenced by local geology. Composition,
particularly iron content, is shown to have a strong effect on slag melting point and
viscosity, and the implications for the purity of metal produced are discussed.
Bringing together the evidence provided by slag chemistry, documentary sources and
smelting remains in the archaeological record, changes in tin smelting technology
through time, and the consequences thereof, are considered.
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Type
Thesis
Qualification name
PhD