Microbial defacement and degradation of artistic or historic artifacts
is a worldwide problem affecting all countries regardless of their
history, geographical location, or economic conditions. This is the
first comprehensive study of the role of microbial colonization on the
degradation of different cultural artifacts (from buildings to books,
wall paintings, textiles, sculptures and glass) and of the
investigations into the compounds utilized to control microbial
invasion. The book focuses on three main areas: the identification of
the microorganisms which cause structural damage; methods to reduce or
prevent microbial colonization and damage; and the use of microorganisms
for the protection and bioremediation of cultural artifacts.