ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: In this study we focus on three different cases of mural paintings alteration due to the presence of microbial communities. The formation of oxalates, lead pigments oxidation and carotenoids development noticeably contribute to murals and mortars alteration, and are correlated in this study with the presence of biodeteriorative microorganisms. These alterations, attributed to metabolic activity of microorganisms, promote polychromy degradation of specific pigments, efflorescence’s appearance and biofilms formation, culminating in some cases, in structural damage affecting mortars integrity.
