This research applies known techniques to the analysis of quartz microdebitage from archaeological deposits.
New techniques are in development to apply luminescence dating to sand-sized quartz microdebitage.
This technique may be also applied to rock engraving sites, where previously it was thought that the engraving process did not leave any discernible traces in the surrounding environment. This research is based on the recognition of quartz grain surface features, recognition of microdebitage and grain roundness index. Although these methods, individually, are little used, in combination with the latest technological advances in geosciences and physics they can be valuable methods when employed in the analysis of archaeological deposits. The application of chronological methods to archaeological deposits can be applied to quartz grains surrounded microdebitage, and to the organic material in the stratigraphy. This application will lead to a greater understanding of site formation, bioturbation and other site disturbance processes.