Evidence-based management of archaeological copper alloys: predicting corrosion and specifying storage parameters

Thunberg, Johanna 2025. Evidence-based management of archaeological copper alloys: predicting corrosion and specifying storage parameters. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Archaeological copper alloy objects are an important part our cultural heritage. Their long-term preservation is sought after excavation to ensure objects can be studied and enjoyed by stakeholders. Management strategies to ensure preservation must be informed by knowledge about materials, their degradation processes during burial and how these affect risk in the post-excavation environment. Effective management of archaeological copper alloy is hindered by long-standing gaps in knowledge about the post-excavation mechanisms of change, colloquially referred as bronze disease, and how exposure to atmospheric conditions after excavation can be translated into risk. The risk of bronze disease is difficult to predict, making assessment of preservation needs difficult. A common mitigation strategy to prevent bronze disease from occurring is to store objects in desiccated microclimates, where low RH environments are created by placing the objects in a small enclosure alongside a desiccant. Their successful use is mainly anecdotal, and there are no standardised practices to inform their use. This thesis seeks to address gaps in knowledge about bronze disease and the efficiency of common practices using desiccated microclimates as a strategy to minimise risk. A multianalytical approach has been taken, applying observation, oxygen consumption, Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Raman Spectroscopy, Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis and climate simulation systems. The results demonstrate the effect of metallic copper and formation of hygroscopic and metastable compounds on the bronze disease process. Risk in the post�excavation environment has been shown by quantifying the rate of bronze disease relative to relative humidity between 15-80% and temperature between 10-60oC. The performance of desiccated microclimates has been quantified according to how these are used in practice, evidencing how choice of hardware and use impact their success. The results have shown that it is possible to refine management procedures by understanding of both intrinsic and extrinsic variables

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > History, Archaeology and Religion
Subjects:	A General Works > AM Museums (General). Collectors and collecting (General) C Auxiliary Sciences of History > CC Archaeology
Funders:	Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	27 August 2025
Date of Acceptance:	26 August 2025
Last Modified:	27 Aug 2025 11:10
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/180679

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