Contact name: David Harrison

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Magnetic susceptibility survey is generally used as a tool for locating concentrations of archaeological settlement i.e. the buried remains of features such as pits, hearths, kilns, furnaces, and enclosure systems. These features are detectable due to their enhanced magnetic susceptibility, which is acquired through intense burning activity during site occupation, and through the ‘fermentation’ of archaeological deposits remaining in situ. Where there is sufficient contrast between the magnetic susceptibility of the subsoil and that of the archaeological features these variations can be mapped and used as key indicators for further, more detailed investigation.

Volume Specific Susceptibility

Volume specific susceptibility measurements (SI units) are taken in the field using a hand-held Bartington MS2D field coil connected to an MS2 Susceptibility meter. This method is generally used for reconnaissance employing a sample and traverse interval of 10m.

Mass Specific Susceptibility

Mass specific susceptibility (m3/kg) measurements are determined in the laboratory from samples collected in the field. These are dried, sieved and ground prior to measurement. The mass specific susceptibility is calculated using an MS2B laboratory sensor.

Features detectable: (dependent on sample interval and depth of archaeology)

Occupational Activity:

• Pits
• Ditched enclosures
• Trackway
• Midden deposits

Industrial Activity:

• Hearths
• Kilns
• Furnaces