ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: In search for safer alternatives to replace biocides like methyl bromide and hydrogen cyanide, Integrated Pests Management (IPM) has since the1980s become an important aspect in preventive conservation in museums. Today the most widespread non-chemical methods to control pests used by museums are anoxic treatments (nitrogen or carbon dioxide), or treatments with heat or cold. Many museums have nitrogen chambers or make use of air tight bubbles and reduce oxygen levels with oxygen scavengers, nitrogen bottles or nitrogen generators. Other methods used by museums include microwaves, high frequency radiation or gamma radiation. Still quite new in the application in museums and storage facilities is the use of parasitoid wasps against pests like webbing clothes moths, biscuit or tobacco beetles. This paper provides a brief review and comparison of the non-chemical treatment methods by analysing their benefits and disadvantages, cost and time for treatment.
