Welcome            

Welcome to the web presentation of our research group. The group is part of the Archaeometry Program, which is running at the Institute of Materials Science at the National Center of Scientific Research "Demokritos" (Greece). Our main research activities are:

• Provenance of archaeological pottery, lithics and composite materials

• Technology and function of archaeological pottery

• Technology and construction methods of ancient wall paintings

• Study of mechanisms of deterioration and methods of preservation of mortars and stone materials of archaeological and historic buildings

To study the various aspects of ceramics and composite materials we are applying methods and techniques, which are well-known from materials science and geology. Besides chemical, mineralogical and petrological characterization we have expertise in examination of microstructure, mechanical tests and computer simulations. Therefore we are using facilities at N.C.S.R. "Demokritos" and collaborating institutes. Analytical methods that we apply on a routine basis are for example:

• Chemical Analysis: Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), ICP

• Mineralogical Analysis: X-ray Diffraction (XRD), FTIR

• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)

• Tests of mechanical and physical properties

• Computer modelling of material performance

The main focus of our work is on research and development of new approaches in the investigation of archaeological materials. But we are offering as well service measurements for routine characterization of archaeological finds and cultural heritage objects.

Contact

Dr. V. Kilikoglou

Institute of Materials Science, N.C.S.R. "Demokritos"

15310 Aghia Paraskevi, Attiki

Greece

tel. +30 210 650 3317 

fax. +30 210 651 9430

 

last update 15.02.2011 A.Hein