In-situ, non-invasive investigation of an outdoor wooden sculpture

Abstract

This paper reports on the development of a radio- frequency sensor unit for the non-invasive monitoring of Bruce Armstrong’s outdoor wooden sculpture constructed from River Red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis). This technique collects realtime data in situ in outdoor environments. Sensor units employing electromagnetic radiation in the microwave to radio frequency part of the spectrum can detect moisture changes, mould growth and termite infestation in specimen Australian timbers used in works of art. Model experiments using wood samples showed that moisture changes,decay levels, invasion of wood by insects such as termites and wood deterioration due to fungal attack can be detected with both ..