Microbial Degradation of Historic Ship Timbers: Challenges and Solutions

Researchers from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, in collaboration with Terra Mare Conservation and the National Park Service, have conducted a comprehensive study on the decay of historic ship timbers. The study, recently published in the Journal of Fungi, revealed the types of decay present, the elemental chemistry of the woods, and a diverse population of fungi isolated from the ship timbers. The findings suggest that fungi tolerant of wood preservation treatments have colonized the wood over time, causing advanced stages of decay.

Key Takeaways:

• The study revealed that advanced stages of decay were found in many areas of the historic ship, despite past wood preservation treatments.
• A diverse group of soft rot and white rot fungi were identified from wood isolations made throughout the ship, with many appearing tolerant of compounds used to treat wood for preservation.
• The researchers suggest that controlling the environment by reducing moisture and exposure to elements is crucial to halt the deterioration caused by these fungi.
• A new enclosed structure for the ship with environmental control is recommended to preserve the historic ship.
• Further research is needed on the biology and ecology of these fungi to understand their interactions with wood and develop effective control methods.
• The study highlights the importance of robust wood preservation treatments and environmental control measures for historic buildings and ships.
• Claudia Chemello and Paul Mardikian, conservators from Terra Mare Conservation, collaborated with the research team to evaluate the types of decay present and the elemental chemistry of the woods.
• The research team hopes to further study these organisms to better understand their interactions with wood and develop effective control methods.

Statistics:

• 12 academic departments, 10 research and outreach centers, and dozens of interdisciplinary centers are part of the University of Minnesota's College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences.
• The USDA Hatch Project and the US National Park Service supported the research.
• The unprecedented study has provided valuable insights into the microbial degradation of historic ship timbers and the importance of environmental control measures.

Sources:

• Journal of Fungi
• University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
• Terra Mare Conservation
• National Park Service
• USDA Hatch Project
• CFANS (College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences)