Geochemical Analysis for Heritage Materials
A special issue of Heritage (ISSN 2571-9408).
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 22
Special Issue Editor
Interests: petrology; mineralogy; rock composition; materials characterisation; cultural heritage conservation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The geochemical analysis for heritage materials serves a critical field that brings together archaeology, geology, and materials science, offering profound insights into the past while guiding the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations. By applying advanced analytical techniques, researchers can unravel the secrets of ancient craftsmanship, tracing the origins of materials and shedding light on historical trade networks, resource exploitation, and technological innovations.
This field of research encompasses a diverse range of archaeological and architectural materials including ceramics, gems, coins, marbles, lithoid building materials, mortars, concretes, and plasters. Through petro-archaeometric characterization, scientists can not only classify these materials but also determine their provenance, offering invaluable information about the societies that created and utilized them.
Beyond historical investigation, geochemical analyses play a pivotal role in the conservation and restoration of heritage structures and artifacts. This information is invaluable for understanding the historical contexts of trade routes, resource utilization, and technological advancements. Moreover, by identifying the precise geological sources of ancient materials, experts can develop scientifically informed restoration strategies, ensuring that interventions remain faithful to the original compositions of these object and enhance their long-term preservation. This meticulous approach safeguards the authenticity and integrity of cultural heritage, allowing these artifacts and structures to withstand the test of time.
Ultimately, geochemical analysis reveals the hidden narratives embedded in the materials that have shaped human history. By deciphering these silent witnesses of the past, we not only deepen our understanding of ancient civilizations but also strengthen our commitment to protecting our shared heritage for generations to come.
Researchers are invited to contribute papers that cover topics including, but not limited to, the following:
- Geochemical and petro-archaeometric characterization of archaeological and architectural materials.
- Provenance studies used to trace the geological sources of materials and reconstruct historical trade routes.
- Technological advancements in ancient craftsmanship and resource utilization.
- Geochemical approaches to conservation and restoration, ensuring the compatibility and long-term preservation of materials.
- Case studies on archaeological and historical sites, highlighting the role of geochemical analysis in heritage research.
The aim of this Special Issue is to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and showcase innovative research that enhances our understanding and preservation of cultural heritage.
We look forward to receiving contributions from researchers in all related fields.
Dr. Elena Marrocchino
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.
Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Heritage is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.
Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.
Keywords
- cultural heritage
- provenance
- petro-archaeometry
- material characterization
- geochemical analysis
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