Measurement of density and granularity of archeological artifacts using industrial computed tomography

In this study, a method is proposed for easy acquisition of accurate 3D images of archaeological artifacts obtained using an industrial X-ray computed tomography system. The obtained images can be used for generating surface models of earthenware objects, measuring their thickness and volume, exploring their characteristics, and constructing highly realistic replicas using a 3D printer. Sixteen earthenware artifacts were evaluated, dating from the Jomon to Heian periods, including vases and pottery. By measuring the weight of the artifacts, their density and granularity could be determined. The general decrease in density was observed, and we assumed that it depend a change in materials and fabrication methods. However, this trend was temporarily reversed following the transition from the late Jomon to the Yyoi period, in our measuring data.