Cg. Bjordal et T. Nilsson, Observations on microbial growth during conservation treatment of waterlogged archaeological wood, STUD CONSER, 46(3), 2001, pp. 211-220
During conservation treatment of simulated archaeological wood, multicolour
ed microbial colonization and slime layers developed at the liquid/air inte
rface after seven months of impregnation in PEG (polyethylene glycol). This
microbial growth, leaving behind a foul odour, is a major problem for wood
conservation worldwide. Despite presence of microbes, observations using l
ight microscopy revealed no wood-degrading activities within the wood tissu
e of test samples. Biofilm surrounding wooden objects may have a negative e
ffect on PEG penetration rate, whereas discoloration by blue stain fungi ha
s a more aesthetic drawback. From the conservator's point of view, microbia
l growth during conservation treatment could constitute a health problem ra
ther than a threat to the actual wooden artifacts.