What are the best metal archaeological preservation techniques?

Preserving metal artifacts from archaeological sites is a complex yet crucial task to safeguard our cultural heritage. The best techniques combine scientific precision and careful handling to prevent further degradation.

1. Desalination: Soaking metal artifacts in distilled water removes harmful salts that accelerate corrosion. This is especially vital for objects recovered from marine environments.

2. Corrosion Inhibitors: Chemicals like tannic acid or benzotriazole form protective layers on metal surfaces, slowing oxidation without altering the artifact’s appearance.

3. Electrolytic Reduction: For heavily corroded iron objects, this method uses a mild electric current to reverse corrosion, converting rust back into stable metal.

4. Microcrystalline Wax Coating: A reversible protective layer that shields metals from humidity and oxygen, ideal for display or storage.

5. Controlled Environments: Storing artifacts in low-humidity, oxygen-free cases (e.g., with silica gel or argon gas) prevents ongoing chemical reactions.

6. 3D Documentation: Before treatment, laser scanning or photogrammetry creates digital backups, ensuring details are preserved even if physical conservation fails.

Each artifact demands a tailored approach, balancing preservation with ethical considerations to maintain historical integrity. Advances in nanotechnology and non-invasive analysis continue to revolutionize this field, offering hope for even fragile relics.