Archaeology of Iron Production in Early China: Progress and Challenges

The next talk of this China series, which will take place on Zoom, will be presented by Dr Dr LIU Yaxiong (Henan University, China).

Abstract

Iron production in early China has followed a unique technological pathway since around 6th century BC, using a cast iron smelting technique (also known as the indirect process) to extract iron from its ore, while also developing a complicated technological system to utilise this material for making a wide array of iron products. This talk aims to give the audience a basic and updated introduction into such a technological system while focusing on certain major technical innovations including grey/mottled cast iron production, annealing and fining for decarburisation. In the meantime, some of the most challenging issues in current and future research will also be shared with the audience.

About the Speaker

Dr Liu Yaxiong obtained his doctoral degree from the UCL Institute of Archaeology in 2021, and now is Lecturer in Archeometallurgy at the Department of History and Culture of Henan University. His research is focused on the iron production in early China, including the beginning of cast iron in the Central Plains, the associated mold-casting techniques, and decarburisation method as well as the impact of iron on social developments in early China.

All welcome! Please contact the ICCHA Administrator for the Zoom link.