Integrated VSM and FTIR Analysis of Archaeological Ceramics for Conservation Purposes

This study presents a novel investigation into the taxonomy of Jordanian ancient ceramics within
an archaeological framework. Pottery fragments dating to approximately 2000 years before the
present were analyzed using Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) and Fourier Transform
Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), applied here for the first time to such materials. VSM was employed
as a quantitative tool to differentiate and group ceramics based on their magnetic properties, while
Differential Thermal Analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to
study and examine the relationship between mineralogical composition and magnetic behavior of
molecular structure. The integration of these techniques enables a more reliable characterization
of ancient ceramic materials and supports informed conservation strategies. The findings highlight
the value of advanced, non-destructive analytical approaches in promoting sustainable and
compatible preservation of Jordanian archaeological ceramics.