THE DETECTION AND DESTRUCTION OF BASIDIOMYCETES IN THE TIMBER OF ARTEFACTS OF HISTORICAL OR ARCHAEOLOGICAL INTEREST

Summary The Wood Research Group at Dundee Institute of Technology is currently investigating a number of parameters associated with methodology for) the preservation of timber and the detection of decay organisms within timber. Application of specific methodologies allowing the in situ treatment of timbers with preservative agents and the relatively non-destructive testing of timbers for decay organisms are particularly appropriate to conservation strategies for wooden structures. Currently used procedures for remedial treatment of such structures require visual identification of decayed wood followed by removal and replacement of defective timbers. An alternative strategy is required where artefacts of historical or archaeological importance are under threat. The development of immunological methods for the detection of incipient decay (i.e. the presence of decay organisms before they have caused damage to timber) and the use of water soluble diffusible biocides such as boron based salts will be discussed in this presentation. Applications of these methods to two historical artefacts present in Dundee, viz. the UNICORN, the oldest surviving European built warship still afloat, and the DISCOVERY, a research ship used in Antarctic exploration in the early part of this century, will also be discussed.