The analytical investigations of ancient pottery from Kaveripakkam, Vellore dist, Tamilnadu by spectroscopic techniques

• We report the firing conditions and temperature of potsherds.
• We report the firing temperature of potsherds below 900 °C.
• The combined analytical techniques gives the analytical composition of potsherds.

Analytical investigations using Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Thermal Analysis (TG-DTA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (EDXRF) were carried out on ancient pottery fragments from Kaveripakkam, in order to outline manufacturing skills, technology information, firing condition and temperature of potteries. The whole set of data showed the firing temperature in the range of 800–900 °C. The analytical characterization of the potsherds, by different complimentary techniques has allowed to identifying the raw materials and technology applied by the ancient artisans.

Figure shows two curves corresponding to the DTA and TGA analysis for Kaveripakkam Potsherds.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide