Example archaeology dissertation topic 6:

The conservation of archaeologically recovered synthetic carpet.

The difficulties faced by archaeologists when conserving wet-site artefacts is well known; particularly with regard to wood and there is a wealth of literature on the use of colophony rosin, polyethylene glycol and acetone in such work. Recent research has also been undertaken on the best ways to preserve wet-site archaeologically recovered synthetic carpet. Using such studies as base points, this dissertation undertakes a number of laboratory based experiments that seek to provide a comparative answer as to the best way to preserve water-logged man-made synthetic carpet and in so doing records the success and failures of adopting techniques such as dehydration, and freeze drying.

Suggested initial topic reading:

>

• Barker, B. and Lamb, L. (2009). ‘The archaeology of poverty and human dignity: Charity and the work ethic in a 1930s Depression Era itinerant’s camp on the Toowoomba Range Escarpment, Queensland’, Archaeologies, Vol. 5(2), pp. 263-279.
• Harris, R. (2001). ‘What to do while you’re waiting to do archaeology? Processes of decay in the 21st century’, Australian Archaeology, Vol. 52, pp. 49-50.
• Wild, J.P. (2003). Textiles in archaeology. Princes Risborough: Shire Publications.