OPTIMIZING DRYING STRATEGIES TO REDUCE DOWN TIMES FOR ACTIVELY-USED FLOOD DAMAGED HISTORIC BUILDINGS

The sustainability of historic buildings often depends on continued use. Institutions provide significant resources for repair and maintenance. Increased flood risk as a consequence of climate change is growing in a number of places. Once wet, a building could be unusable for a long time, leading to losses and possible abandonment. An initial study as part of the EU research project, Global Climate Change Impact on Built Heritage and Cultural Landscapes (Noah's Ark) has shown how novel computer modelling can predict how wood left to dry naturally will dry in future climates. This knowledge will help develop strategies for safe and rapid drying of flooded wooden buildings. Conventional rapid drying using mechanical dehumidification can cause large moisture gradients within wood, leading to mechanical stress and failure. It is hoped to find fast, safe drying regimes by optimizing the pattern of rapid and natural drying.