The impact of 5 years’ underwater exposure in the Baltic Sea (Puck Bay) on selected properties of English oak wood samples

Abstract

In order to understand the influence of the underwater marine environment on changes in selected properties of contemporary wood, samples of oak wood were tested following several years of exposure at an underwater archaeological site (Puck Bay, Baltic Sea). The content of the major and minor components of the wood, as well as the total amount of minerals were determined. Selected physical properties were tested, as well as the strength and resistance of marine wood to rot caused by Basidiomycetes fungi. The study showed a decrease in the strength of the wood, changes in the chemical composition, and an increase in the quantity of mineral substances. In addition, a marked increase was found in the susceptibility of the tested wood to degradation by Basidiomycetes. These results indicate that the immersion of oak wood in the waters of Puck Bay caused significant changes in its physical, chemical and biological properties. Observations of changes occurring in contemporary wood can be useful in the monitoring of underwater archaeological sites.