Determining the condition of waterlogged archaeological woods and iron nails from the Yenikapı 17 shipwreck using multiple analytical techniques

Nineteen waterlogged wood (WAW) samples from the YK 17 shipwreck, focusing on pine and oak species, were initially investigated using basic techniques, including maximum water content (MWC), basic density (BD), and relative basic density (RBD), to provide comprehensive insights into their degradation state. The wood samples were classified as Class I, with oak WAW samples exhibiting higher MWC values compared to those of pine. Additionally, minimally invasive methods, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and SEM-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), were utilized for the physical and chemical characterization of the WAW samples. FTIR analysis revealed significant chemical degradation, evidenced by the absence of cellulose and hemicellulose peaks, while lignin components demonstrated greater durability. SEM imaging illustrated the physical deterioration of the wood cells, confirming the destruction of the S2 layer and the disintegration of tracheids. Furthermore, elemental analysis via SEM-EDS identified contamination by calcium, iron, and sulphur, likely attributable to the marine environment and associated iron nails. Finally, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of the four iron nails provided the first assessment of their chemical composition, revealing the presence of goethite and calcite in highly corroded samples. Among these findings, the conservation process of the Yenikapı (YK) 17 shipwreck can be performed more successfully, and the study serves as a notable case study that highlights the complexities and approaches involved in the conservation of WAW.