Preserved Remains Planning Guide
Why Preservation Scores Matter
Preserved remains can change quickly after discovery. Light, air, heat, moisture, and movement may alter their condition. A simple score helps teams compare risks before action. It also supports clear field notes. The calculator does not replace an expert. It gives a structured estimate for planning.
Main Preservation Factors
Environment is the strongest driver. Dry caves may protect remains by limiting moisture. Frozen settings can slow biological activity. Waterlogged sites can preserve some materials, but sudden drying can cause damage. Surface exposure usually raises risk. Soil chemistry also matters. Acidic or alkaline conditions can affect bone, tissue, and associated materials in different ways.
Handling and Recovery Risk
Fragile remains need support before movement. Fragmentation raises handling risk. Long transport can add vibration and shock. Poor documentation creates another problem. If labels, photos, and location records are weak, recovery decisions become harder. Good documentation improves control and lowers uncertainty.
Storage Decisions
Storage should match the discovery context. Dry remains often need stable dry housing. Waterlogged remains may need moisture control before conservation review. Frozen remains should avoid repeated thawing. Sealed finds should be opened carefully. Sudden changes can be more harmful than slow aging.
Using the Result
A high score means the remains appear stable under the entered conditions. A low score means the case needs caution. High handling risk suggests less movement and more support. High recovery priority means the site or object may need faster review. Use the output with professional judgment, local rules, and respectful practice.