X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) And Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Analysis Of Potsherds, Sungai Batu Complex, Bujang Valley, Kedah Sungai Batu Complex, Bujang Valley, Kedah

Abstract

Archaeological excavations at the Sungai Batu Archeological Complex have unearthed potsherds with monument structures. The discovery of the potsherds enables scientific studies of X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis to be conducted and resolve related issues such as where the raw materials were obtained by the manufacturers. To solve the issue, potsherds were taken from around the ancient river, and scientific analyses was conducted for comparison purposes. Before the clay sample was subjected to the scientific analyses, the samples were cleaned and measured (for weight, thickness and width). Color sampling was also performed. Based on results of the analyses, it clearly shows that the potsherds was produced using raw materials from the ancient river in the Sungai Batu Complex itself and baked at a temperature between 550°C and 650°C.