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The Persian Empire, once the largest empire in the world, left a lasting legacy in terms of political, cultural, social, and economic development. Known for its centralised bureaucratic administration and policies of multiculturalism, the empire also made significant advancements in technology and economics. Recent archaeological excavations in southern Iran, conducted by University College London (UCL), have revealed evidence of chromium steel production dating back to the 11th century – centuries before the Western world.

Previously, it was believed that chromium steel production was a 20th-century innovation originating in the West. However, the UCL study and excavation discovered manuscripts from the 12th to 19th centuries describing Chahak, southern Iran, as an important center for steel production. One manuscript, titled ‘al-Jamahir fi Marifah al-Jawahir’, written by the Persian scholar Abu-Rayhan Biruni, provided the only known written account of crucible steel-making methods.

Through radiocarbon dating and electron microscopy, the researchers were able to determine that chromium, a crucial ingredient in the production of chromium steel, was intentionally added to the steel-making process in Chahak. This discovery indicates that chromium steel production was a Persian phenomenon and predates Western innovations by centuries.

The research not only sheds light on the earliest evidence of chromium steel production but also provides a chemical tracer that can aid in identifying crucible steel artifacts’ origin. Dr Rahil Alipour, the lead author of the study, believes that this distinct Persian crucible steel-making tradition sets it apart from Central Asian practices.

Iran has long been a treasure trove for archaeologists, with sites like the Burnt City revealing ancient relics and valuable insights into past civilizations. This recent discovery adds another feather to the Persian Empire’s cap, showcasing their ingenuity and technological advancements far ahead of their time.

Sources:
– University College London (UCL)
– Journal of Archaeological Science

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