Braekmans, DennisBroekman, Max J. G. M.Grashof, Bernd G.Oudshoorn, Max P. J.Uittenbroek, Lennard H.Jacobs, Loe F. H. C.2020-12-032020-12-032019-05-16Braekmans D, Broekman MJ, Grashof BG, (2017) Forensic exploration of the mechanical properties of basalt grains in earthenware. Archaeological and Environmental Forensic Science, Volume 1, Issue 2, 2017, pp. 149-1602052-3378https://doi.org/10.1558/aefs.37082http://dspace.lib.cranfield.ac.uk/handle/1826/16053The overall goal of this project is to contribute to reconstruct the innovation mechanisms and development of ceramic production using forensic engineering techniques. Instead of optimizing materials as a driver in modern engineering, here we wish to use these methodologies, but aim to solve questions on advancement in the past fabrication process – and thus ultimately understand the key issues of a less or (un)successful design and subsequent improvement. This paper wishes to address the advantages and constraints regarding to use of basalt in ceramic matrices. By utilizing a standardized set of different test bars comprising different amounts of basalt fired at both 800°C and 1000°C, it can be concluded basalt tempered ceramics have a higher fracture toughness when compared to quartz enriched materials. It is there plausible to identify basalt as a good temper material for (ancient) earthenwares in terms of thermal (shock) activitiesenAttribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 Internationalhttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/Experimental ArchaeologyBasalt temperLevantFracture ToughnessAncient ceramicsArticle