6660
Accession Number
20368
Editor
Olin, Jacqueline S.; Blackman, M. James
Title Of Article Chaper
Zinc distillation in ancient India
Title Of Journal Book
Proceedings of the 24th International Archaeometry Symposium
Pages
249-258
Collation
10 p. : ills., 10 figs. (some photos)
Reference Bibliography
Includes bibliographical references
Publisher
Smithsonian Institution Press
Publisher City
Washington
Language Of Text
English
Language Of Summary
English
Literature Type
Monograph : Proceedings
Literature Level
Analytic
Meeting
International Archaeometry Symposium (24th : 1984 : Smithsonian Institution)
Meeting City
Washington, D.C.
Abstract
Archaeological explorations and excavations at Zawar have revealed sufficient evidence to enable us to reconstruct the technology that was used in the production of zinc in ancient India. Radiocarbon assay of timber supports found in the galleries of old sphalerite mines has given 2120±60 B.P. and 1920±50 B.P. dates for the early stages of zinc ore mining and smelting industry at Zawar. Production of zinc presents special problems because the boiling point of the metal is lower than the minimum temperature necessary for extraction of zinc from zinc oxide.
Keywords
Rajasthan;distillation retort;brass;copper;excavation; furnace; smelting -- CAL
pub_id
6660
Meeting Date
19840514-19840518