The paper raises the question if PEG impregnation of wood is a durable method for preservation of waterlogged items or if unexpected chemical reactions under unfavourable conditions can destroy the impregnated wood. In recent years it has been found that polyethylene glykol is an excellent reagent for solvolysis of wood. This means that polyethylene glycol and low concentration of acid completely and rapidly can degrade wood to low molecular weight products (wood liquefacation).