• Journal of Conservation Science
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• v.38 no.1
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• pp.55-63
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• 2022

The Bigyeokjincheolloe (bomb shell), a scientific cultural heritage, has outstanding historical value for sustaining a gunpowder weapon of Joseon. In this study, the bomb shell was modeled through three-dimensional (3D) scanning centered on the external shape and 𝛾-ray radiography-based on the internal shape. In particular, to improve the contrast in the radiographic image, optimization and image processing were performed. After these processes, the thickness of the inner wall (2.5 cm on average) and the positions of the three mold chaplets were clearly revealed. For exhibition purposes, the 3D model of the bomb shell was output to a 3D printer and the output was rendered realistic by coloring. In addition, the internal functional elements, such as Mokgok, fuse, mud, gunpowder, and caltrops, were reproduced through handwork. The results will contribute to the study of digital heritages in two ways. First, the internal and external shapes of the bomb shell were modeled by fusing two different technologies, namely, 3D scanning and 𝛾-ray radiography. Second, the internal shape of the bomb shell was constructed from the original form data and the reproduction was utilized for museum exhibitions. The developed modeling approach will greatly expand the scope of museum exhibitions, from those centered on historical content to those centered on scientific content.

• Conservation Science in Museum
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• v.24
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• pp.17-36
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• 2020

This paper describes the consevation treatment of eleven bigyeokjincheolloe bomb shells that were excavated from the Joseon-period local government office and fortress of Mujang-hyeon (present-day Mujang-myeon) in Gochang in 2018. It also provides information on the production method of the shells revealed through CT scanning, gamma-ray transmission imaging, and metallographic analysis. In preparation for the special exhibition "Bigyeokjincheolloe" at the Jinju National Museum in 2019 (July 16 to August 25), contaminants were removed from the shells and their surface was reinforced during the first phase of conservation treatment. Furthermore, the closures for the shells were identified for the first time. Regarding the production of the shells, the CT scanning and gamma-ray transmission imaging identified many blowholes in the interior of the body and the use of a chaplet on the side of one shell. The side of the body proved to be relatively thinner than the top and bottom. The traces of a hole for pouring molten metal into the center of the bottom indicates that molten metal was indeed emptied into the inverted body. In the metallographic analysis of two of the bodies and one lid, cementite and pearlite structures were identified on the body, indicating that it was made by casting. The presence of the ferrite structure with a partial distribution of the pearlite along with non-metallic inclusion in the lid suggested that the lid was made by forging.