• Journal of Conservation Science
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• v.38 no.3
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• pp.217-233
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• 2022

The remains found in Geumcheok-ri, Gyeongju are located in close proximity to the Ancient Tombs in Geumcheok-ri, Gyeongju (Historic Site) which were built between the late 5th and early 6th centuries, and these tombs are known to belong to the powerful rulers of that area. Using metallurgical techniques, this study was conducted on the iron objects obtained from the excavated remains in Geumcheok-ri, Gyeongju which are presumed to have a close relation to the nearby ruins that played an important role in the growth of Silla. To identify differences in manufacturing techniques based on the purpose of the iron objects, eight objects were selected after classifying them by use and the microstructure and non-metallic inclusions were investigated. The analyses results confirmed that the manufacturing process involved forging iron with a high or low carbon content to produce a particular shape, and that the carburization process was applied to iron post forging a shape to increase its strength when necessary. The mechanical properties were improved by selectively applying the steelmaking method and the heat treatment technique considering the functions of the parts, and the low temperature reduction was applied to the smelting process. Furthermore, in comparison with the iron objects excavated from the remains located in the center of Gyeongju and its outskirts, it is confirmed that there is similarity in the smelting and manufacturing techniques between these objects.