Study of eight Albanian-Dalmatian axes (XIII-XII B.C.) and six celts (XI-X B.C.) found in northern Albania, by μ-XRF, OM, SEM-EDS

Abstract

Albania lies in the southeast part of Europe, in the Balkan Peninsula and one of its northern oldest city is Shkodra. This study includes eight Albanian-Dalmatian axes (XIII-XII B.C.) and six celts (XI-X B.C.), found in Shkodra's suburbs. Their elemental composition is analyzed with X ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), the axes' microstructure together with the corrosion products are observed using reflected and polarized optical microscopy (OM). Finally the microstructure as well as the composition of various phases are studied with scanning electron microscopy - energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). All axes result copper-tin alloys associated with elements such as Pb, Fe, Ni and As. The Albanian-Dalmatian axes may have been used as monetary tools while the celts may have served as working tools. Several phases in the microstructure suggest the possibility of sulphide copper ore usage.