Characterization of nanostructured calcium carbonate found in two ancient Etruscan tombs

Researchers have identified a unique nanostructured calcium carbonate, resembling moonmilk, coating the walls and frescoes of two ancient Etruscan tombs in Tarquinia's Monterozzi necropolis. This material, characterized by rod-like crystalline structures with an average thickness of 400 nm, suggests a biological origin, supported by the presence of microorganisms. The study employed advanced techniques such as SEM/EDX, FT-IR, and XRD to analyze powder samples collected during restoration interventions. The findings provide insights into the formation and composition of this rare patina, shedding light on its potential origin and significance in archaeological contexts.

Mura, F., Cirigliano, A., Bracciale, M. P., & Rinaldi, T. (2020). Characterization of nanostructured calcium carbonate found in two ancient Etruscan tombs. International Conference on Trends in Material Science and Inventive Materials: Ictmim 2020, 2259, 20011. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0023677