Methodological approach and first results of use-wear traces on flint tools through confocal microscope

Abstract

This work aims to analyze the Laser Scanning Confocal Microscope (LSCM) potential for use-waer analysis in lithic industry. This kind of studies seeks to identify use marks in stone tools in order to meet the various activities carried out by human groups during prehistoric times. Therefore we propose microscopic analysis by confocal microscope as progress in quantifying marks or surface patterns, achieving favorable results for use-wear analysis, and Archaeology in general.