Reviewing Conservation Treatments of Waterlogged Wood

Waterlogged wood forms after long periods in wet soil, marine sites, and other humid environments. In anaerobic conditions, complete burial can preserve wood for extended periods, even with some decay, making it a rare but significant archaeological resource. This article explores the components of wood and its decay, highlighting the physical and chemical changes in wood exposed to water. It reviews various conservation treatments for waterlogged wood, examining each method's mechanism, procedure, advantages, and limitations. By assessing these treatments, the essay identifies which techniques might be preferred in the future, tailored to different situations and considerations.