Was ancient egypt the only supplier of natron? New research reveals major anatolian deposits

Abstract

The use of natron as a source of soda in vitrified material industries, especially glassmaking, is known since the first millennium BC in the Near East. The source of natron has usually been associated with the well-known reserves ofWadi Natrun in Egypt, whereas ancient Anatolian sources have been less discussed as potential supplies. This paper reviews the sources of natron available in Anatolia and discusses their importance for the ancient vitrified material industries.