Research Summary

Paper, due to its composition (cellulose, mineral fillers and organic sizings), hygroscopicity, moisture content and pH levels is very susceptible to microbiological deterioration by fungi.
This type of biodeterioration is a major problem in paper conservation, not just because of the damages it causes, but also due to the lack of safe preventive and curative options available to conservators.
Throughout history, several methods have been used to prevent and stop fungal deterioration on paper based materials. However, their dangerousness to the objects, toxicity, carcinogenic potential, or lack of effectiveness has limited their use on cultural heritage.
In the present PhD project we aim to study the action of antifungal and deacidification mixtures, which could stop fungal development besides neutralizing the acids excreted by these microbes. The antifungal efficiency of these mixtures will be evaluated, and also their effects on the long-term chemical and physical stability of treated paper.

PhD Project Title: Fungal biodeterioration of paper: study of antifungal and deacidification treatments