Ancient and Historic Metals: Corrosion, Technology, and Microstructure

Overview of technology of ancient metals, aspects of extraction and alloying, corrosion that ancient metals undergo, and how this impacts their preservation. Exploration of knowledge and research work of last two decades that has substantially advanced understanding of processes of extraction, alloying, surface patination, metallic coatings, corrosion, and microstructure. Laboratory work in preparation and examination of metallic samples under microscope, as well as lectures on technology of metallic works of art. Discussion of phase and stability diagrams of common alloying systems and environments. Metallographic study samples represent Bronze Age Europe, Renaissance Europe, China from Warring States to Tang dynasty, Japanese swordmaking, Indian high-tin bronze alloys, bronzes, Peruvian, Colombian, Costa Rican, and Panamanian copper and gold-copper alloys. Concurrently scheduled with course C280.

Letter grading.