CT scanning reveals Bronze Age copper smelting at Tappeh Ḩeşār. Researchers used X-ray CT scanning on Bronze Age slag from Tappeh Ḩeşār in northeastern Iran CT revealed 3D networks of pores, copper droplets, layered structures, and mineral-filled cracks The technology allowed targeting specific internal phases including arsenic-rich metallic residues
X-ray CT scans of Bronze Age slag from Tepe Hisar in NE Iran revealed 3D pore networks, copper droplets & layered structures. Internal patterns show copper prills forming only under controlled smelting — evidence of systematic, competent metallurgical tradition by the late 3rd millennium BCE.
Key Facts
- Researchers used X-ray CT scanning on Bronze Age slag from Tappeh Ḩeşār in northeastern Iran
- CT revealed 3D networks of pores, copper droplets, layered structures, and mineral-filled cracks
- The technology allowed targeting specific internal phases including arsenic-rich metallic residues
- Internal patterns showed copper prills and flow structures only forming under controlled smelting
- Evidence demonstrates systematic repeated copper smelting by the late 3rd millennium BCE.
- This was competent metallurgical tradition, not experimental or accidental processing
Related site: Tappeh Ḩeşār — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: New Technologies in Ancient History (2026) by World of Antiquity