Uses of X-radiography
- Prior to lending or exhibiting artefacts, X-radiography allows any objects that are in poor structural condition to be identified and withdrawn or replaced: Case study 13.
- An X-radiograph provides an important source of information during conservation treatment.
- Where artefacts from marine wrecks or archaeological sites are covered in thick concretions of soils and corrosion products, X-radiography can help identify the object, record it in case of future deterioration and pinpoint areas that would benefit from selective investigative conservation.
- Internal features, such as firing mechanisms in guns and crossbows, may be examined without dismantling.
- Maker’s marks concealed by corrosion or other parts of the object (such as the grip of a sword) can be identified: Case study 12.
- Over-painted designs may become visible where dense compounds (such as lead oxides) are used as pigments, fillers or opacifiers. For example, changes in the heraldic designs on shields may provide evidence for changes of ownership or allegiance.
- Where edged weapons have been constructed by welding together different alloys, the weld lines may be visible.
- Evidence of re-used materials may become apparent: Case study 11.
- Features, such as modern screw threads, welded repairs etc may point to inconsistencies with the apparent age of the object, or to recent repairs: Case study 15.
- For demonstrating and teaching purposes X-radiographic plates provide an alternative, engaging but easily understandable display.