Relationships between microstructures and properties of chinese ancient bronzes
The typical morphology of alloy lead (Pb) in ancient bronzes made in the Spring-Autumn Warring States Period (770 B.C. -221 B.C.), China, was examined by using electron microscopic techniques. We propose that the main purposes for adding metallic Pb in a large quantity into ancient bronzes, such as arrows and ritual vessel—Ding, were for increasing weight and economical reasons. In order to promote adding efficiency and improve casting quality for getting homogenously distributed Pb particles in the bronzes, a process through inserting Pb rod into the mold is supposed to be used during casting, which provided a process for preventing Pb sinkage. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations from the fracture surface of the bronzes revealed that the Pb particle possessed a “hollow-cored bubble” structure, which was formed due to absorbing casting gases during solidification and therefore indirectly eliminated the casting porosity and loosen.
Metallography and microstructure of ancient and historic metals
This book provides an introduction to the structure and morphology of ancient and historic metallic materials. It deals extensively with many practical matters relating to the mounting, preparation, etching, polishing, and microscopy of metallic samples and includes an account of the way in which phase diagrams can be used to assist structural interpretation. The text is supplemented by an extensive number of microstructural studies carried out in the laboratory on ancient and historic metals.
The development of copper alloy metallurgy in Thailand in the pre-Buddhist period, with special reference to high-tin bronzes
This thesis contains the results of a project designed 
to investigate the development of copper alloy metallurgy 
in Thailand from the earliest times down to the beginning 
of the historical period. Excavated material was obtained 
from a number of archaeological sites in Thailand, in particular 
Non Nok Ta, Ban Don Ta Phet and Ban Na Di. Most of 
this material is well provenanced and can be dated with 
reasonable accuracy. 
Chemical analysis of 276 artifacts was carried out using 
Atomic Absorption or Induction Coupled Plasma spectroscopy, 
with phase analysis being carried out using the electron 
microprobe. In addition, a large proportion of the objects 
(127) was sectioned and examined using the techniques of 
optical metallography. From the information that was obtained, 
it has been possible to build up a picture of the technology 
of different classes of artifacts, the particular alloy used 
for each, and regional and chronological variations. 
In addition, a considerable amount has been learned of 
the class of alloy known as β-tin bronzes, which appear to 
have been used first in Thailand and to a limited extent in 
other Asian countries up to the medieval period. Information 
of fundamental interest regarding these alloys was obtained.