Introduction 20
Evolution of Conventional Radiography in Anthropology and Archaeology 21
Background: Mummy Mania Begins 21
Early Radiographic Applications: Exploring Possibilities 21
Modern Radiographic Applications: Refinement and Technological Progress 22
Conventional Radiography: The Basics 23
Exposure Variables 23
X-Ray Penetration 23
Focal Spot 27
Source-to-Image Distance 28
Image Distortion 28
Beam Collimation 29
Image Receptor: Film and Screens 29
Darkroom: Film Processing 33
Field Radiography Applications: Considerations and Challenges 34
General Considerations 34
Field Imaging: Specific Considerations 35
The Radiographic Unit 35
Utilities 36
X-Ray Tube Support System 37
Image Receptors 39
Darkrooms 42
Film Drying and Viewing 49
Instant Film 50
Positioning 56
Devices to Maintain the Position of the Remains 62
Devices for Holding the Image Receptor 64
Unique Technical Challenges 65
Summary of Unique Technical Challenges 88
Technical Advantages and Disadvantages of Conventional Radiography 89
Technical Advantages 89
Technical Disadvantages 90
Complementary Data Acquisition 90 Anthropological Applications: Laboratory and Field Objectives for Conventional Radiography 91
Fundamental Objectives 91
Assess Condition of the Remains or Artifact Age at the Time of Death
Determination of Sex in Absence of Direct Observation Dentition
95 95 99
108 118 119 119 119
Refinement Objectives
Detection of Pathologies (Paleopathology) Target Identification for Biopsy and Retrieval Cultural Practices Temporal Context
Mechanism of Death
Summary and Future Applications References
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