Analysis of biodeterioration wood estate: use different techniques to obtain images

The radiographic images were analyzed by ImageJ and allowed to determinate that the affected area by wood decay fungus inside wood was higher than outside (superficial view). This confirms that external degradation did not correlate with the internal status. TC images showed internal wood structure loss, which were correlated with the presence of fungal hyphae along the entire slat.

Finally, wood microstructure was analyzed by SEM, in these images could be observed the advanced deterioration status of the wood structure, where there are high fungal colonization (hyphae) and wood microstructure loss (the cell wall was degraded). This deterioration analysis allows an indirect measurement of the structural condition of the material without destroying it. It was concluded that degradation analysis by images is a non-destructive alternative, and validated methodology to determine material status.

This is essential in heritage conservation because it allows defining correctly the degradation status that is useful to planning a conservation strategy, avoiding the asset loss.