Scientists from the Mary Rose Trust are using synchrotron technology to carry out a microscopic investigation into the stability of the 16th century vessel’s timbers.
The team are using the Diamond Light Source synchrotron in Didcot to look at the impact of iron sulfide compound residues left on the timber from cannons and bolts, which could affect future efforts to preserve the ship’s delicate timbers.
This involves using a microfocus spectroscopy beamline that focuses an x-ray down to 1/80th the size of a human hair in order to carry out in-depth analysis of the interaction between the iron, sulphur and wood cell walls.
“Thanks to research at Diamond Light Source and the help of collaborators, we have great confidence of the safe preservation of the Mary Rose and other historic ships for the continued enjoyment of future generations,” said Dr Mark Jones from the Mary Rose Trust.
Mary Rose sunk in the mid-1500s and remained submerged in the Solent until 1982, when it was raised and brought ashore. However, this left the previously anaerobically-preserved hull exposed to oxygen and has required it to be continuously sprayed with polyethylene glycol since 1994.
