Taynton Brassmill, Newent, Gloucestershire: Early 17th-Century Brass Manufacture
Author(s): David Dungworth, Roger Wilkes
A selection of refractory and metallic debris from the site of an early 17th-century brass mill have been examined. Chemical analysis of the metals shows that most are brasses with less than 30wt% zinc (small proportions of other elements were also detected), consistent with the production of brass using a cementation process. The crucibles examined showed elevated concentrations of zinc which led to the formation of a zinc spinel which gave rise to a distinctive pale blue colour. The interior vitrified surface of the used crucible showed elevated concentrations of elements (Mg, Ca and Ba) likely to have been impurities in the zinc ore used.
- Report Number:
- 28/2010
- Series:
- Research Department Reports
- Pages:
- 13
- Keywords:
- Metal Working-non Fe Post Medieval Technology
