Design an archaeometric analysis appropriate to material and question
Physical Sciences & Engineering · Materials Science & Archaeometry
ARCHM-320Archaeometry & XRF Methods
Applies non-destructive and minimally destructive analytical methods to archaeological materials, provenance questions, technology, and conservation documentation.
Course outcomes
What students develop
Operate XRF workflows with calibration and quality controls
Interpret compositional data in archaeological context
Report results without overstating provenance or certainty
Course content
Topics and questions
- Archaeometric research design
- XRF principles and spectra
- Calibration and reference materials
- Ceramics, metals, pigments, stone, and glass
- Provenance, technology, and conservation
Methods & resources
Tools and environments
- Portable XRF
- Reference materials
- Spectral and statistical software
Evaluation
Demonstration of learning
- Instrument workflow
- Quality-control analysis
- Archaeometric report
Program relationships
Where this course fits
Core
Digital Archaeology & Heritage Science
Connects archaeological method to GIS, remote sensing, 3D digitization, materials analysis, research computing, and digital stewardship.
Core
Photonics, Measurement & Materials
Advanced work in optical sensing, spectroscopy, imaging, materials characterization, instrumentation, calibration, and analytical systems.
Core
Cultural Resource Management Technologies
CRM project systems, GIS, digital documentation, archaeometry, reporting, and partner-based delivery.
Core
Archaeometry & Materials Analysis
Materials characterization, XRF, calibration, quality control, archaeological context, provenance reasoning, and technical reporting.
Course inquiry
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