The Synopsis_ Analysis of a Metallic Specimen associated with the 1947 Roswell incident, conducted by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), reveals several key findings:
- Material Composition: The specimen is primarily composed of magnesium and zinc, with layers of bismuth and trace elements such as lead, cadmium, thallium, gold, molybdenum, tin, and barium.
- Terrestrial Origin: The isotopic analysis of magnesium and lead suggests that the material is of terrestrial origin, aligning with known terrestrial compositions and fractionation trends.
- Physical Characteristics: The material consists of distinct layers with evidence of heat and mechanical stress. This layered structure, along with its crystalline properties, was investigated using advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.
- Waveguide Functionality: The hypothesis that the bismuth layers could act as a terahertz waveguide was tested and found improbable. The bismuth in the specimen is nanocrystalline and amorphous, rather than the pure single-crystalline layer required for such functionality. Multiple bismuth layers likely disrupt, rather than facilitate, waveguide properties.
- Structural and Chemical Analysis: Detailed structural and chemical analyses confirmed the presence of fractures and features consistent with extended heat exposure. The material’s composition and microstructure were examined using techniques like CT scans, SEM-EDS, and TEM-EDS.
- Historical Context and Verification: The long chain of custody for the specimen remains unverified, but public interest and media coverage warranted a thorough scientific investigation.
In conclusion, the comprehensive analysis by ORNL did not find evidence supporting non-terrestrial origin or extraordinary properties like inertial mass reduction. The findings strongly indicate the material is terrestrial and manufactured using an unusual combination of elements, possibly subjected to significant environmental stressors.
For further details, you can refer to the provided synopsis document.