The threat eating away at museum treasures
18 days ago
- #mold
- #conservation
- #museums
- Mold is a persistent problem in museums, damaging art and artifacts.
- A new type of mold, xerophiles, thrives in low humidity, contrary to traditional conservation beliefs.
- Xerophilic molds can survive in dry environments and consume organic materials in museums, including fabrics and wood.
- Climate change is aiding the spread of xerophilic molds, with Scandinavian museums among the first to confront this issue.
- Traditional mold detection methods fail to identify xerophilic molds, requiring specialized low-water activity media.
- Xerophilic molds have been found in high-profile cases, including Leonardo da Vinci's self-portrait and King Tut's burial chamber.
- Museums struggle with treating mold infestations due to the limitations of biocides and fumigation, often resorting to quarantine and cleaning.
- Researchers are studying xerophilic molds to develop better prevention and treatment methods, including understanding their basic biology.
- Xerophilic molds are not just a museum problem; they have been found in food production facilities and hospitals, posing health risks.
- The stigma around mold infestations in museums hinders open discussion and collaboration to address the issue.