Scientific Achievements in Wood Science: From Climate Reconstruction to Preservation of Cultural Heritage

Zahra Fayzii from the Vice-Presidency for Research and Technology News Desk of the University of Tehran:

Dr. Kambiz Pourtahmasi, Professor of Department of Wood and Paper Science and Technology at the University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources of University of Tehran and Associate-Rector for Research & Technology of the College, discussed the latest scientific achievements in wood science, research capacities, environmental sustainability, and the role of this field in climate studies and preservation of historical heritage in an interview with the University of Tehran Internet TV.

Wood Science; An Interdisciplinary Field with Extensive Applications

Dr. Pourtahmasi explained that the field of Wood Science and Paper Industries at the University of Tehran has evolved significantly beyond traditional wood identification and has become a highly interdisciplinary field with applications across various industries.

He stated that this discipline today contributes to the production of paper, furniture, engineered wood products, wood composites, cellulose-based materials, pharmaceutical carriers, musical instruments, conservation of historical artifacts, and advanced technological applications.

According to him, many products used in everyday life, including paper, books, furniture, MDF, particleboard, and other cellulose-based materials, are directly connected to scientific knowledge developed in wood science.

Reconstruction of 500 Years of Iran’s Climate History Through Tree Rings

One of Dr. Pourtahmasi’s major research achievements is the development of dendroclimatology studies using tree-ring analysis.

He explained that trees preserve historical climate information in their annual growth rings. By accurately analyzing these rings, researchers can reconstruct past variations in precipitation, drought patterns, and climate conditions over several centuries.

According to Dr. Pourtahmasi, his research team has reconstructed 500 years of spring precipitation records in Golestan Province and around 300 years of climatic variations in the Zagros forests.

The research group has also developed one of Iran’s oldest tree-ring chronologies, dating back nearly 700 years, providing valuable information for understanding long-term climate trends and supporting future climate prediction models.

He added that similar studies have recently been conducted in southern regions of Iran, including Kerman Province and Mountain Geno in Bandar Abbas, providing new 400 years data regarding the climatic history of southern Iran and the Persian Gulf region.

Improving Wood Quality for Musical Instrument Production

Another major area of Dr. Pourtahmasi’s research focuses on improving the acoustic properties of wood used in musical instruments.

He explained that specialized wood treatment methods have been developed to enhance the acoustic performance of newly harvested wood, giving it characteristics similar to older and traditionally valued woods.

A practical example of this research was the production of a traditional Santur using treated wood, which was presented and performed at University of Tehran exhibition hall at the 26^th Iranian exhibition of Research Achievements, Technology and Tec markets.

This achievement demonstrates the potential of wood science technologies in supporting the development of Iranian musical instrument production.

Scientific Preservation of Historical Manuscripts and Cultural Heritage

Dr. Pourtahmasi also highlighted his research activities in the field of historical manuscript preservation.

He noted that through collaborations with institutions such as the Malek National Library and Museum, the National Museum of Iran, and Isfahan University of Art, researchers are studying the structure of historical paper fibers, identifying original materials, and analyzing deterioration factors.

He explained that understanding the composition and characteristics of ancient papers enables experts to develop more accurate restoration methods.

According to him, manuscripts belonging to Seljuks, Timurid and Safavid period and ranging from 400 to 1000 years have been studied, and his research team members are working toward reproducing paper materials similar to historical papers for use in conservation and restoration processes.

Wood as a Tool for Carbon Reduction and Sustainable Development

Dr. Pourtahmasi emphasized the important role of wood in sustainable development and environmental protection.

He explained that trees absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis and store carbon within their structure. Therefore, as long as wood remains in the form of products such as furniture, buildings, and other wood-based materials, the stored carbon remains contained and does not return to the atmosphere.

He noted that replacing wood with materials such as steel and concrete often requires higher energy consumption and generates greater environmental pollution. Therefore, scientifically managed wood utilization can contribute to climate change mitigation strategies.

The Need for Scientific Management of Iran’s Forests

Dr. Pourtahmasi also discussed the challenges facing Iran’s forests and emphasized that forest protection requires scientific management approaches.

Regarding the management of the Hyrcanian forests, he stated that conservation cannot be achieved through complete abandonment of forest management. Instead, forests require continuous monitoring, scientific planning, rehabilitation programs, controlled utilization, and sustainable management.

He argued that the absence of proper management may increase illegal logging activities and reduce the economic and ecological value of forest resources.

According to him, sustainable forest management should combine conservation objectives with scientific utilization to maintain biodiversity, improve forest health, and support national industries.

Research as the Engine of University Development

Drawing on his years of experience in university research management, Dr. Pourtahmasi emphasized the importance of investment in research infrastructure.

He identified strengthening laboratory facilities, supporting graduate research projects, expanding research grants, and increasing international scientific cooperation as key factors in improving research quality at universities.

He stated that investment in research represents a long-term investment in scientific advancement, technological development, and the future capabilities of the country.

The Future of Wood Science: From Advanced Technologies to Sustainable Development

According to Dr. Pourtahmasi, Wood Science and Cellulose Industries will play an increasingly important role in the future of sustainable development, environmental protection, climate studies, cultural heritage preservation, and innovative industries.

He emphasized that utilizing the scientific potential of this field can contribute not only to industrial development but also to a deeper understanding of climate change, protection of natural resources, and preservation of historical heritage.

Through interdisciplinary research and innovation, the University of Tehran continues to play an important role in advancing knowledge and developing solutions in wood science and related fields.

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