In moist or wet conditions wood degrades under the influence of both microbiological and physico-chemical decaying processes. The extent of decay is reflected in the water content of European oak in water-logged condition, as well as in the chemical composition of the wood. In a number of cases shipwrecks or parts of wrecks have been excavated consisting entirely of hardly degraded wood. Controlled drying may be an approach to their conservation. Results of this method of conserving large objects are described. See also 16-388. -- AATA