Monitoring and Mitigation Works in Unsaturated Archaeological Deposits

Even minor increases in soil moisture can significantly reduce oxygen diffusion, slowing the decay of archaeological materials at Bryggen. This finding stems from a long-term monitoring project (since 2001) that integrated water management strategies to mitigate deterioration in unsaturated deposits. Researchers analyzed in situ oxygen concentrations alongside soil moisture, temperature, groundwater levels, precipitation, and reactivity, revealing how small changes in moisture dynamics impact decay rates. The study's water-management system, designed to raise groundwater levels, demonstrates a practical approach to preserving archaeological sites by balancing oxygen exposure with soil conditions.

Matthiesen, H., Hollesen, J., Dunlop, R., Seither, A., & de Beer, J. (2016). Monitoring and Mitigation Works in Unsaturated Archaeological Deposits. Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites, 18(1-3), 86–98. https://doi.org/10.1080/13505033.2016.1182777