Geochemical Link Between Slag Inclusion and Hammerscale, a Potential New Tool to Better Understand the Iron Supply of an Archaeological Workshop

Abstract Hammerscale is the waste formed during hammering of hot iron on anvil. It mainly composed oxides (wüstite, magnetite, hematite) with a variable amount silica-rich component. This research focuses potential geochemical link between hammerscale and smelting derived slag inclusion contained in metallic iron. In frame previous research, smithing practice African Dogon craftsmen (Mali) has been recorded details. Different samples were collected including, slag, hammerscale, metal. Two different groups bars produced by bloomery process more than one hundred experimental pieces chemically investigated situ Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM–EDS) Fluorescence spectrometry (WD-XRF) Fribourg / Switzerland. A small part them was also analyzed Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) Orléans France. The results show strong contamination working environment (flux, ashes, sand, etc.) impacting concentrations most non-reducible elements, particular abundant ones (Si, Al, K, Ca). However, several analyses revealed abnormal high contents Ti, Mn, Zr contrast to chemical composition forging environment. these elements are affected but ratios, this context, remain unchanged. TiO 2 /Zr ratios measured consistent from same type. Those support that could still carry signature system thus fingerprint worked. Applying methodology archeological would make it possible assess diversity worked irons provide information about primary ore sources. Improving our current knowledge workshop supplies therefore circulation past times.