A note on the metallographic preparation of ancient lead

AbstractAbstractReliable and reproducible polishing of lead samples for metallographic study is difficult to achieve, since smearing and distortion of the polished surface can easily mask the microstructure of the lead. A practical method is presented employing etch/polish reagents combined with colloidal silica. Final etching can be achieved using either etch/polish methods or by immersion in acidified glycerol etchant. An example of the use of this method in the examination of the microstructure of a lead sheet from the Roman period is discussed.