Mechanical Coring as an Aid to Archaeological Projects

AbstractAbstractThe practicalities of a commercially available mechanical coring apparatus are discussed. Examples are shown illustrating its use as a partial alternative to test-pitting and as the only feasible technique for deep evaluation in urban conditions. Other uses include defining site edges, following features off-site, and some forms of sampling for specialists. Attention must be paid to the interpretive problems that can arise. These are primarily due to the limited view presented by the corer window and the compaction from friction between the corer and the soil. To deal with the former problem, it is recommended that interpretations based on coring are regularly controlled with sections. A formula for correcting displacement due to compaction is presented.