New frontiers review of some recent conservation techniques of organic and inorganic archaeological artefacts against microbial deterioration

Abstract

The information on the advances and technology of some recent conservation methods (2020–2023) of organic and inorganic archaeological objects against microbial deterioration is recorded. An outline of comparative new protective methods for conserving plant-origin organic artefacts {Fibers (manuscripts, textile) and wood}, animal-origin organic artefacts (painting, parchment and mummies) and inorganic stone artefacts were investigated. The work not only contributes to the development of safe revolutionary ways for more efficient safe conservation of items of historical and cultural worth but also serves as a significant diagnostic signature for detecting the sorts of microbial identification and incidents in antiques. Biological technologies (environmentally friendly green biocides) are the most used recent, efficient and safe strategy acceptable as alternatives to stop microbial deterioration and prevent any potential interactions between the biological agent and the artefacts. Also, a synergistic effect of combining natural biocides with mechanical cleaning or chemical treatments was suggested. The recommended exploration techniques should be considered for future applications.

Eco-Friendly Preservation of Pharaonic Wooden Artifacts using Natural Green Products

“…Salem et al [37] stated that FTIR spectra of extractives differ according to the wood species and the type of plant extract. Many groups of extractives have functional groups such as terpenoids, phenolic compounds, hydroxyls, carbonyls, and carboxylic groups [97][98][99][100].…”

Ionic Liquids as Potential Cleaning and Restoration Agents for Cellulosic Artefacts

“…It is conceivable that a small amount of ILs also persists in the paper, evident through weak absorption bands at ~835 cm −1 (Ts anion from bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide) in P1-HMIMTs and at ~628 cm −1 (attributed to the imidazolium cation) in both P1-HMIMCl and P1-HMIMTs. The enduring presence of the ionic liquids (ILs) within the cellulosic material, sustained by the specific consumption values expressed in Table 2, could have some long-term benefits in terms of the biostabilization of paper [26][27][28] or its interactions with various degradative factors such as variable humidity, exposure to radiation, and more. However, it is important to note that these correlations are subjects of investigation in our forthcoming studies.…”

“…Most of these studies primarily focused on the use of protic ILs, predominantly consisting of alkylammonium cations, as biocidal agents targeting various fungal strains found in specific pigmented areas of damaged books, cellulose substrates, or wood artifacts. Only a limited number of studies have explored the influence of alkylammonium or alkylimidazolium ILs with triazole anions on the optical and mechanical properties of paper, demonstrating promising advancements in reducing yellowing, reducing acidity, and enhancing folding endurance [26][27][28][29]. Furthermore, specific ionic liquid formulations based on long alkyl chain compounds with hexafluorophosphate or lactate anions have displayed the capability to increase the repellency of printing paper to water and organic molecules, showcasing their potential in the conservation of paper artifacts [29].…”