MetroArcheo Registration Deadline is EXTENDED until May 30th
Special Session on the Analytical Characterization of Historical Forest By-products
This session focuses on the scientific study of traditional forest-derived materials—Potash, Pitch, Tar, Resin, and Charcoal (PoTaRCh)—that have been central to historical economies, crafts, and industries across Europe.
Session Title: Analytical Characterization of Forest By-Products in Cultural Heritage: Exploring Potash, Pitch, Tar, Resin, and Charcoal
Register here: https://www.metroarcheo.com/call-for-papers
The session will bring together experts in analytical and archaeological chemistry, material characterization, and conservation science to address the following themes:
- Origins and Technologies: Identification of historical production sites, raw material sources, and traditional techniques.
- Analytical Techniques: Use of spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry to investigate composition, degradation, and environmental interaction.
- Methodological Frameworks: Protocols for biological origin detection, technological modification, and cross-disciplinary innovation.
- Interdisciplinary Perspectives: Linking heritage science, environmental chemistry, and archaeology to deepen our understanding of PoTaRCh materials.
The session invites contributions that highlight the application of analytical methods to cultural heritage studies and aims to foster discussion around best practices, technical challenges, and emerging research directions.
Organized within COST Action CA22155 – EU-PoTaRCh, this session is led by WG2, with a mission to advance compositional studies of PoTaRCh materials in archaeological contexts.