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year 9, Issue 33 (12-2025)                   Parseh J. Archaeol. Stud. 2025, 9(33): 179-201 | Back to browse issues page


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Bakhshandehfard H, Kouhestani K. (2025). Analysis of the Technical Aspects and Microstructure of Copper Alloys in Ancient Iron Age Metallurgy in Sagzabad. Parseh J. Archaeol. Stud.. 9(33), 179-201. doi:10.61882/PJAS.680.1140
URL: http://journal.richt.ir/mbp/article-1-1140-en.html
1- Associate Professor, Department of Cultural and Historical Object Restoration, Faculty of Conservation and Restoration, Art University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran (Corresponding Author). , hr.bakhshan@aui.ac.ir
2- M.A. in Restoration, Department of Cultural and Historical Object Restoration, Faculty of Conservation and Restoration, Art University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
Abstract:   (627 Views)

The settlements of the Qazvin Plain, particularly at Tepe Qabrestan and Sagzabad, demonstrate a continuous sequence of metallurgical development in the prehistoric period of this region. The aim of the present study is to examine the functional aspects, manufacturing technology, chemical composition, microstructure, and alloy phases of metal artifacts recovered from the Iron Age levels of the Sagzabad site. In this context, the study aims to address key questions regarding the production processes and manufacturing techniques of the artifacts, the alloying practices employed, as well as the chemical composition and formation conditions of the identified corrosion products. To achieve these objectives, various analytical techniques were employed, including XRF for determining the chemical composition. The results indicated the presence of various alloys, including copper–arsenic, copper–antimony, tin bronze, and nearly pure copper. Metallographic analysis of two samples with preserved metallic cores revealed a cast structure with a distinct core, providing important information about the manufacturing techniques. In addition, SEM-EDS observations confirmed the presence of α-phase dendrites and the formation of γ-phases associated with copper–arsenic and copper–antimony alloys. Elemental analysis results indicate varied patterns in the use of copper–arsenic and copper–antimony alloys, suggesting that ancient metalworkers possessed considerable knowledge of how to achieve desirable mechanical properties in their metallic products. In addition, the identification of silver inclusions and sulfide intermetallic compounds within the microstructure allows hypotheses to be proposed regarding the types of ore sources used in the metal extraction process. The identified manufacturing technologies ranged from two-part mold casting to the production of chisels with both spiral and simple cross-sections. The analyzed artifacts comprise decorative, ornamental, and Functional objects. This typological and technological diversity provides a comprehensive view of Iron Age metallurgical practices at Tepe Sagzabad.

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Type of Study: Research | Subject: Interdisciplinary
Received: 2025/02/10 | Accepted: 2025/05/7 | Published: 2025/12/22

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