X‑ray computed tomography (CT) and ESEM‑EDS investigations of unusual subfossilized juniper cones
Recent investigations of a Greco-Roman site at Sais have provided well-preserved archaeobotanical
remains within a pile of metal fragments. The remains are compared with comparable modern taxa.
The morphology and anatomy are studied using Light microscope (LM), Environmental scanning
electron microscope (ESEM) and X-ray computed tomography (CT). To investigate the preservation
mode, Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and elemental mapping are conducted. Results
revealed that the archaeobotanical remains are exhibiting close affinity with modern juniper cones.
Although, the studied archaeobotanical remains are buried for more than 2 millenniums, they
underwent early stages of silicification and copper mineralization. These results are discussed in
relation to other excavated objects in the find and to our knowledge and understanding of daily life in
the Greco-Roman period.