Integrated methods for analysis of deterioration of cultural heritage: the Crypt of “Cattedrale di Otranto”

Cataldo, Rosella; Donno, Antonella De; Nunzio, Giorgio De; Leucci, Giovanni; Nuzzo, Luigi; Siviero, Stefano

doi:10.1016/j.culher.2004.05.004

Cited by 75 publications

(46 citation statements)

References 8 publications

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“…Therefore, it can be seen that the relationship between these values and the conditions in both the internal and outside environments can induce microbial growth that can be very dangerous for conservation activities. Environmental conditions that provide a relative humidity over 60%, a temperature between 10 C and 30 C and poor ventilation, which are typical of environments such as crypts, are all features that are particularly favourable for fungal growth (Nugari et al, 1993;Cataldo et al, 2005). In addition, the chemosynthetic microbial (e.g., bacteria) and heterotrophic (e.g., fungi) colonisers might not reveal their presence under normal visual examination due to their small size, although can still be active on the artefacts, through the formation of crusts, dust and layers (Giacobini et al, 1987;Ciferri, 1999;Sterflinger and Piñar, 2013;Onofri et al, 2014).…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

The assessment of fungal bioaerosols in the crypt of St. Peter in Perugia (Italy)

Ruga

Orlandi

Romano

et al. 2015

International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

The assessment of fungal bioaerosols in the crypt of St. Peter in Perugia (Italy)

Ruga

Orlandi

Romano

et al. 2015

International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation

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“…They may create complex communities structured in the form of biofilms on inorganic surfaces. These surfaces are mainly colonized by autotrophic microorganisms that can cause serious biodegradation over a period of years (Abdulla et al 2008;Cataldo et al 2005Cataldo et al , 2008Ciferri et al 2000;Strzelczyk 2004;Strzelczyk and Karbowska-Berent 2004;Tomaselli 2003;Valentin 2003;Vornicu et al 2008).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 96%

Microbial contamination of storerooms at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum

et al. 2010

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Biodeterioration of heritage collections caused by microorganisms is a worldwide problem. To avoid degradation caused by biological contaminants transported into the indoor environment by air, proper bioaerosol protection is required. The aim of this study was to assess the level of microbial contamination of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum collection based on qualitative and quantitative analyses of bacteria and fungi isolated from the atmosphere and settled dust of museum storerooms. The obtained results demonstrated that a correctly operated air-conditioning system and limiting the number of visitors in the studied storerooms can significantly inhibit microbial contamination of the air and decrease deposition of bacterial and fungal particulates on exhibit surfaces. The performed analyses confirm that an aerobiological assessment of museum premises is a useful tool in their hygienic evaluation and, if necessary, in decision-making regarding interventions to minimize biological decay of collections.

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“…Preventive conservation requires knowledge of a variety of parameters connected to a specific CH site, including microclimatic conditions, concentration, and character of caustic gases and particles in the surrounding air, as well as management of the CH site (Cataldo et al 2005;Kontozova-Deutsch et al 2008a;Worobiec et al 2008;Brimblecombe et al 2009). Hence, monitoring and sampling campaigns for air pollutants and microclimatic parameters have to be performed to identify possible threats and thereby remedies (Delalieux et al 2001;Esbert et al 2001;Camuffo et al 2002;La Gennusa et al 2005;Corgnati et al 2009;García-Diego and Zarzo 2010).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Characterization of indoor and outdoor atmospheric pollutants impacting architectural monuments: the case of San Jerónimo Monastery (Granada, Spain)

et al. 2010

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Indoor and outdoor concentrations of atmospheric gaseous pollutants as well as composition, size, and morphology of particulate matter have been investigated at the monastery of San Jerónimo in Granada (Southern Spain). Complementary micro-and nano-analytical techniques were applied; elemental and mineralogical composition and morphological characteristics of particulate matter were investigated combining electron probe microanalysis at the single particle level, and bulk aerosol samples were analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray analyzer and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Microclimatic conditions at the monastery were monitored, and gas concentrations were assessed by means of diffusion tubes subsequently analyzed with ion chromatography. Results revealed high abundances of soil dust particles (aluminosilicates, calcite, dolomite, quartz), salt aerosols (chlorides, sulfates and ammonium-rich salts), and NO 2 and SO 2 both outdoors and indoors. Amorphous black carbon particles had surprisingly high abundances for Granada, a non-industrialized city. The composition of indoor particles corresponds to severe weathering affecting the construction materials and artworks inside the church; moreover their composition promotes a feedback process that intensifies the deterioration. Chemical reactions between chloride-rich salts and pigments from paintings were confirmed by TEM analyses. Indoors, blackening of surface decorative materials is fostered by particle re-suspension due to cleaning habits in the monastery (i.e. dusting). This is the first air quality study performed in a monument in the city of Granada with the aim of developing a strategy for preventive conservation.

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Integrated methods for analysis of deterioration of cultural heritage: the Crypt of “Cattedrale di Otranto”

Cited by 75 publications

References 8 publications

The assessment of fungal bioaerosols in the crypt of St. Peter in Perugia (Italy)

The assessment of fungal bioaerosols in the crypt of St. Peter in Perugia (Italy)

Microbial contamination of storerooms at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum

Characterization of indoor and outdoor atmospheric pollutants impacting architectural monuments: the case of San Jerónimo Monastery (Granada, Spain)

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