Institution:

Dept of Wood Science
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Box 7008
750 07 Uppsala, Sweden

Co-ordinators:
Dr. Charlotte Björdal, Research scientist, wood conservator charlotte.bjordal@trv.slu.se
Prof. Thomas Nilsson , thomas.nilsson@trv.slu.se

AIM

The aim of this subproject is to study microbial degradation processes in wood when re-buried in the sediment of the harbour at Marstrand. Different depths of burial will be tested as well as the durability of different wood species.

METHOD AND MATERIAL 

Sound wood stakes of oak, spruce and birch will be exposed into and above the sediment at different levels. Samples will be retrieved after 6, 12, 24, and 36 month whereas long-term probes (for phase 2 and 3) will be left for future investigations. Thin sections from each stake (a total of 216) are investigated by light microscopy to determine the type and degree of decay by wood degrading fungi and bacteria. Type of decay is verified using electron microscopy (SEM). The results will led to an evaluation of re-burial as an useful technique for long term storage of historic and archaeological wood in the harbour of Marstrand.

TIME PLAN

During the period 2003 - 2005, examination of wood stakes will be carried out, preliminary results reported to the coordinator, and at the end of 2005 a scientific report on results published.

WOOD - WORK IN PROGRESS AND RESULTS

Work in progress (PDF, 256 Kb) Report 2003