Hello Tim,
I see clinker as something similar to cinder, derived from the use of coal
as a fuel. On the basis of Bachmann 1982 (The identification of slags from
archaeological sites) and McDonnell 1983 (CA 86), I have defined cinder as
'conglomerates of hearth material not completely fused, containing mainly
fuel ash, lining or perhaps welding sand'. Cinders are 'easily recognised
by their light, crumbly nature and brownish colour. Although usually
considered a residue of smithing, 'cinders can also form in a smelting
furnace in connection with unreduced ore and fuel.' (Schrufer-Kolb 2004,
11).
Hope this helps,
Irene
PS: How is the peat charcoal research coming along?
--
Dr Irene Schrufer-Kolb
Associate Lecturer in Classical Studies
The Open University, Southern Region, Foxcombe Hall, Boars Hill, Oxford
OX1 5HR
Tel./FAX: +44-(0)1280-823102
and
Part-time Tutor in Archaeology (Diploma; Archaeometallurgy)
Oxford University, Department for Continuing Education
Rewley House, 1 Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JA
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