Sustainable Protective Strategies and Biocide Applications in the Restoration of Palazzo Centrale Dell’Università, Catania, Italy

Roberta Occhipinti, Giuseppe Lazzara, Paolo Mazzoleni (), Alfredo Motta and Germana Barone
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Roberta Occhipinti: Departement of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, C.so Italia 57, 95129 Catania, Italy
Giuseppe Lazzara: Department of Physics and Chemistry, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, pad. 17, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Paolo Mazzoleni: Departement of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, C.so Italia 57, 95129 Catania, Italy
Alfredo Motta: Departement of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, C.so Italia 57, 95129 Catania, Italy
Germana Barone: Departement of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, C.so Italia 57, 95129 Catania, Italy

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 7, 1-17

Abstract: The present work discusses the challenges and approaches involved in conserving cultural heritage (CH), specifically focusing on eco-friendly conservation methods and the management of biodeterioration. It highlights the need for innovative protocols that align with green conservation criteria, aiming to replace traditional, potentially harmful practices with sustainable alternatives. This study is based on the role of nanomaterials like halloysite in developing protective coatings for CH materials. Additionally, the issues of biological colonization on CH assets, the difficulties in controlling environmental factors affecting biodeterioration, and the use of direct methods in outdoor conservation were also evaluated. This work is specifically focused on a case study: the “Palazzo Centrale dell’ Università” in Catania (Italy), where alternative, eco-friendly protectives and biocides have been tested on Hyblean limestones. After a preliminary study of the lithology and the forms of degradation which affect the whole monument, laboratory tests were carried out using the newly developed protective coatings on several types of Hyblean limestone in order to assess their efficacy and their impact on the stone. Furthermore, cleaning operations were also tested on-site by comparing an eco-friendly biocide with commercial counterparts in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the products and establish an efficient restoration protocol for future projects.

Keywords: cultural heritage; biodecay; nanoprotective biocides; limestones; aging test (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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