märkävarastoja

Märkävarastoja, a Finnish term, translates to "wet storage" in English and refers to a method of storing certain types of materials, particularly in an aquatic or semi-aquatic environment. This practice is most commonly associated with the preservation of archaeological wood. When wooden artifacts are excavated from waterlogged sites, such as bogs or riverbeds, they are often in a delicate state. Exposure to air can cause rapid dehydration, leading to shrinkage, cracking, and decomposition. Märkävarastoja aims to prevent this by maintaining the moisture content of the wood.

The process typically involves immersing the excavated artifacts in a controlled aqueous environment. This can be as simple as a tank of fresh water, or it may involve more sophisticated solutions containing additives like polyethylene glycol (PEG). PEG is a humectant that can gradually replace the water within the wood's cellular structure, providing long-term stability and preventing drying. The water in the storage environment is often kept at a consistent temperature and may be circulated to prevent stagnation and the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Märkävarastoja is a crucial step in the conservation of waterlogged organic materials, allowing for their stabilization before further treatment or display. The duration of storage can vary widely depending on the size and type of the artifact, as well as the specific preservation strategy being employed. This method is vital for preserving historical evidence that would otherwise be lost to decay upon exposure to atmospheric conditions.