Work

Virtual replication of sediment cores for geoarchaeological research in Uruk-Warka (Iraq)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study presents a novel methodology for the production of high-detail, georeferenced virtual replicas of sediment cores extracted using vibracoring, a widely used technique for subsurface investigations in geoscientific research. In a case study conducted around the ancient city of Uruk in southern Iraq, 150 meters of sediment cores from 25 locations were documented. A specialized photogrammetric technique was developed to rapidly capture the visual characteristics of the stratified sediments before sampling and reuse. Cross-polarization was applied to normalize the resulting textures for enhanced sedimentological analysis. An automated processing pipeline generated georeferenced 3D models with high-detail textures, which were integrated into the UAV-based landscape model of the Uruk-VR digital twin. This comprehensive integration of surface and subsurface data offers a foundation for three-dimensional spatial analysis of stratigraphy, facilitating the reconstruction of ancient canal systems and landscape evolution of one of the oldest cities of humankind.

Source: ISPRS Open Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

DOI: 10.1016/j.ophoto.2025.100093

Authors: Max Haibt, Felix Reize, Helmut Brückner, Jörg W.E. Fassbinder, Margarete van Ess

Institutions: Deutsches Archäologisches Institut, Zentrale, Deutsches Archäologisches Institut, Orient-Abteilung, Universität Koblenz, University of Cologne, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

Language: English

Topic: 3D Surveying and Cultural Heritage

Subfield: Geology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,800

OpenAlex ID: W4411632166

FWCI:

Cites: 58

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Related to: 10