[Bonetools] SEM work on bones

[Sian Beecroft]

Dear all,

I wonder if you can help me?  

I'm doing my PhD on the faunal remains from the Bronze Age Copper mines at Great Orme (you might remember me from the Paris conference!).  Among the 30,000 bone fragments are a few thousand cattle bone tools (mostly long bones, ribs and scapula - but not many metapodials).  I'm hoping to conduct an experiment digging with some modern cattle bones then using a SEM to compare the results from my experiment to the archaeological artefacts.

I have no experience using a SEM, but one of my tutors is confident using it on metal objects.  We would be very greatful if anyone could suggest the best machine to use (we have access to different types) and what magnification should we expect to find use-wear evidence on the ends of the bones, or perhaps polish where the bone is held?

I hope this makes sense!

It was great to meet you all in Paris, I learnt a lot!

Thanks,

Sian 

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