Mineralogy and chemical compositions of ancient slags from Volubilis archaeological site and Awam ancient mine (Morocco)

Six slags from Volubilis archaeological site roman period (II-III centuries AC) and Jabal Awam ancient mine have been examined for their mineral and chemical compositions Vases by a multi-technique approach (Optical and metallographical microscopies, XRD, ICP-AES and XRF).Mineralogical analyses have emphasised the occurrence of iron oxi-hydroxide, quartz, pyroxene and calcite).The bulk chemical compositions of slags are similar and related to a refining of a homogeneous ore.The very low contents of metals plead for well mastered pyrometallurgical methods.

The metal composition of the treated ore is close to a polymetallic ore Pueraria deposit probably similar to that of Awam mine (Lead and Silver).

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