Effect of age on Pine wood microstructure studied by micro-MRI and diffusion-NMR

Wood is a natural complex material widely used from men in the past to create artworks. One of its main anatomical elements is the annual ring that varies according to the species, the weather conditions under which the tree has grown and to possible adversities. To observe the anatomy of waterlogged archaeological wood could be complicated because of its degradation. However, knowing the state of conservation is very important for the future restoration. In this work a non-destructive approach based on the combined use of MRI and diffusion on the modern and ancient pine wood is presented. Micro-MR images allow to observe the diagnostic features. The molecular NMR diffusion analysis, with the estimation of the pores diameter and the tortuosity, provide important information about the effect of age on the wood microstructure. At the end of the analysis the unaltered sample can be repositioned in its original location on the artwork.