ABSTRACT
The control of biodeterioration on works of art is a complex question. The aim of treatments against biodeteriogens is to control or to eradicate their growth. Control methods which can be employed against biodeterioration of cultural heritage are mainly mechanical, physical, and chemical. The suitability of control methods based on physical factors are attentively evaluated and used as possible replacements to chemical control especially in museums, libraries and archives. The methods more frequently used or proposed to date are: electromagnetic radiations, microwaves, freezing and heat. In the control of biological growth on both organic and inorganic materials chemical substances, biocides or pesticides are mainly employed. A wide range of inorganic or organic products have been and are still being used for disinfection and/or disinfestation of cultural heritage. The efficiency of biodeterioration control depends on the methods and/or the products chosen but physical treatments and most biocides do not have any residual effects.
