Non-Invasive Methods in Dendrochronology: Problems and Perspectives

With the development of new technologies, several conceptually new methodological developments have appeared in the modern dendrochronology, including the study of samples using the so-called “non-invasive methods.” This article details the history of the use of high-resolution macrophotography and computed tomography for studying wooden samples, which, due to their high historical, cultural, and material value, cannot be studied using traditional methods. Moreover, based on the results of foreign and Russian experiments on the use of these technologies in dendrochronology, we have made an attempt to highlight main problems and limitations of the methods, as well as to analyze their prospects both for archeology and other disciplines. A conclusion was made that, since 2007, when the first attempts to use X-ray CTs to measure the width of tree growth rings were made, the success in the use of this technology has become evident. Despite several unsuccessful experiments, the large majority of the researchers note high efficiency of the method, as well as its high potential for further research. As for macrophotography, with the emergence of special software in the early 2010s, which could make it possible to study samples not only in the field, but also remotely, this method also proved to be highly effective. Its main advantage is in its relatively low cost, as well as the ability, when necessary, to re-examine the sample at any point. The emergence and active implementation of non-invasive methods in dendrochronology can significantly increase the source base available to the researchers, adding to it a large number of archaeological artifacts, works of art, as well as antiquities and much more.