what was the purpose of natron in the mummification process

The rate at which a body decomposes is dependent on the environment it is in and the state of the body itself (clothed or unclothed etc). Desiccation of the body halts decomposition, stopping the process of putrefaction (Gashe, 2010). When a corpse or carcass starts decomposing it goes through the process of autolysis, putrefaction, decay and skeletonization (Munkres, 2009). Understanding the taphonomy of desiccated tissues is directly relevant in bioarchaeological applications.ĭesiccation is the process of the body drying out due to natural phenomena while mummification is the result of human’s use of materials to artificially desiccate a corpse, enhancing preservation of the body. This research emphasizes the necessity for considering the cultural context of taphonomy. The lab protocols established by this research will provide protocols for future taphonomic studies. Rat carcasses were used in place of human cadavers, with full documentation of the process, duration, and stages of their mummification. Inca mummification necessitates evisceration and skinning of the carcass, use of alcohol, and drying of the specimen.

Egyptian mummification requires evisceration of the carcass, treatment with alcohol to limit bacterial activity, and submergence in Natron. Natural mummification includes artificial heating and cooling of the carcass buried in sand within a clay pot.

Artificial mummification techniques of the Egyptian and Inca cultures are considered. The project employs controlled laboratory experiments to compare desiccation rates in natural and artificial mummification processes while considering the cultural context of the funerary practices. This two-year research project was carried out as part of SUNY Potsdam’s Presidential Scholars program which allows undergraduates to conduct independent research.

Putting life into Late Neolithic houses.

Experimental Archaeology the Exhibition.

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What was the purpose of natron in the mummification process