In the present investigation, X‐ray diffractometer, optical microscope, and scanning electron microscope were used to analyze the plowshare excavated from Ganwaria, UP, India. The main objective of the investigation was to determine the type of alloy, analysis of slag inclusion, and corrosion behavior. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed the presence of α‐iron. Microstructure consists of ferrite and pearlite grains; ferrite phase was soft in comparison to the pearlite. Optical micrograph at lower magnification revealed slag inclusions aligned in a specific direction, which indicates that the forge welding technique was used in the manufacturing of the object. The microstructural examination revealed that the object was manufactured from carbon steel. Entrapped slag inclusions were observed by scanning electron microscope and X‐ray mapping, and slags were identified as SiO2 and MgO. Goethite and lepidocrocite corrosion compound were found on the surface of the object.

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SummaryThe present study deliberates on the archaeometallurgical examination of 2300 years old excavated iron nail from India's middle Ganga plain of Balirajgarh. The nail was subjected to multianalytical investigations in order to determine the raw materials used, manufacturing technology and preservation state. The combined analytical techniques optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry (SEM‐EDX), Vickers hardness and X‐ray diffractometry shed light towards the characterisation and use of the iron artefact. Special attention was paid for qualitative and quantitative analysis of slag inclusions, metal matrix and corrosion products. The presence of heterogeneous microstructure and inclusion of impurities suggests that nail has been produced through the direct process and work hardened. The noncorroded nail is made of hypereutectoid steel and used for building purpose. The study is important to understand the role of technology in the evolution of cultural changes in India that also provides archaeometric data on the method used in the forging work.