Waterlogged Wood
During archaeological investigations it is not unusual to encounter, or expect to encounter, wooden remains that have survived from antiquity via a variety of processes. These can include charring and waterlogging.
Our service is coordinated by Mike Bamforth who is experienced in a wide variety of waterlogged wood excavation and analysis.
The excavation, storage, processing and conservation of waterlogged wood can present a number of unique challenges. L – P : Archaeology provide advice and practical assistance in all stages of this process. We also provide a comprehensive post excavation service, processing the material and offering detailed advice on the options available for conservation.
Devising a dynamic, responsive sampling strategy to cope with the excavation or analysis of a particular assemblage of waterlogged wood can save time and money, both in the field and during the post excavation process. L – P : Archaeology are happy to offer advice and services regarding waterlogged material on projects at any stage, whether it be prior to, during or after excavation.
Waterlogged material is subject to decay from the moment it is exposed to the air. Making the correct packing decisions on site and opting for the most appropriate storage solution will maximise your data recovery, minimise the decay of the material and minimise cost.
Through a considered liaison with the archaeological contractor, we are able to tailor the post excavation analysis of an assemblage to the specific research goals / issues relevant to a specific project. This can help both to eliminate unnecessary work, and to highlight possible new avenues of research utilising the waterlogged wood assemblage.