Our tree-ring laboratory offers ideal tools for preparing wood samples for dendrochronological research, including devices to sand wood samples and prepare micro cuts using core-microtomes in different versions. The laboratory includes equipment to monitor tree-ring growth and collect material from living trees and historical wood structures. Additional optical scanners, surface staining methods and specific woodanatomical preparation techniques contribute to conduct dendroclimatological, and -ecological research and provide new state-of-the-art data.
Maximum latewood density (MXD)
The Walesch X-ray radiodensitometry device DENDROXRAY2 enables high-resolution, absolutely dated maximum latewood density measurements for palaeoclimatic analyses.
Tree-ring width (TRW)
Four Lintab measuring devices and 20 additional binoculars allow absolute dating of tree samples and additional precise measurements of annual increments.
Quantitative Wood Anatomy (QWA)
Our laboratory is equipped with advanced instrumentation designed for high-resolution quantitative wood anatomical analysis. These tools go beyond conventional MXD-based bulk density measurements, enabling precise characterization of xylem microstructures.
To ensure the optimal preparation of wood samples, 10 µm thin sections are prepared, embedded in paraffin to stabilise the cell walls, and stained with safranin and astra blue. The thin sections are then scanned at high resolution using a slide scanner and analysed with Roxas image analysis tool for quantifying xylem anatomy in angiosperms and conifers.
Growth Monitoring
Real-time tracking of tree growth dynamics using dendrometers, sap flow sensors, and non-invasive microcore sampling. Enables high-resolution monitoring of physiological responses to environmental change in living trees.
Wood shop
Specialized wood shop for field and lab sample preparation: equipped with precision saws, borers, and power tools for safe, efficient extraction and processing of wood material from living trees and historical structures.