Supported projects

This project aims to provide new insights into material choices and artisans’ technical skills by studying the microstructure and mechanical properties of multilayer alloys. Former studies based on the combined analysis of material and textual evidence revealed a wide variety of ferrous alloys. In the case of weapons or tools, composite structures consisting of alternating pieces of metal with different mechanical properties were frequently highlighted. While they demonstrate spsecific expertise and a high level of technical skill among artisans, the justification for their use remains questionable. The current hypotheses rely on the manufacturing process constraints, technical function, or even the aesthetic function of the multilayer pattern, in the case of Damascus steel. The study of metal mechanical behaviour is mandatory to understand the choices made by artisans, but also to document further the technical and social function of the objects. To explore these issues, the project will rely on the analysis of model alloys and archaeological replicas, representative of medieval heterogeneous structures. The approach will combine microstructural analysis, hardness and tensile testing to compare several mechanical characteristics (Young’s modulus, yield strength …).