Characterization of archaeological waterlogged wooden objects exposed on the hyper-saline Dead Sea shore. (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oron, Asaf; Liphschitz, Nili; Held, Benjamin W.; Galili, Ehud; Klein, Micha; Linker, Raphael; Blanchette, Robert A.
• Is Part Of: Journal of archaeological science. Volume 9(2016)
• Page Start: 73
• Page End: 86
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: Dead Sea -- Maritime activity -- Waterlogged wood -- Ancient driftwood -- Hyper-saline environments -- Wood deterioration -- Conservation; Archaeology -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Research -- Periodicals; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2016.06.049
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-409X

Abstract

Abstract: Archaeological waterlogged wood objects exposed on the Dead Sea shore exhibit little visual evidence of degradation when first exposed, and after prolonged exposure and dehydration. An investigation on the state of preservation of this material was recognised as a necessary step towards its long-term conservation. Micromorphological observations, ATR FTIR, ash content, and physical tests showed that deterioration is limited and is mostly non-biological in nature. Natural bulking and impregnation with lake minerals and salts appear to play a significant role in the physical stability of these woods when dried, and apparently inhibit microbial colonization and subsequent degradation. In contrast, archaeological wood examined from a typical Mediterranean marine environment showed advanced stages of degradation by bacteria, with the wood structure extensively compromised. Highlights: Drying up of the Dead Sea exposes cultural heritage of 2500 years of maritime activity. Waterlogged wood finds on the Dead Sea shore are better preserved than those from the Mediterranean The Dead Sea's hyper-saline environment prevents biodegradation of wood in the lake water. Minerals migrating into wood submerged in the lake prevent shrinkage when exposed. High mineral content in dry wood objects from the Dead Sea causes gradual physical breakdown.