Safeguarding is a crucial aspect of Cultural Heritage protection that involves multiple factors, including the microclimate. That’s why today we’re focusing on the main threats found in conservation environments.
Contamination risks
Dust is one of the agents that pose a risk to the health of artworks in conservation settings, as it may carry traces of smog and other harmful pollutants. Moreover, particular attention should be paid to the risks caused by biological infestations, mainly resulting from the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold. These typically stem from the presence of multiple unfavorable environmental conditions—first and foremost, excessive relative humidity.
To prevent such issues, several actions can be taken by directly controlling and improving the microclimate of conservation environments.
Research projects
In response to the issue of fungal, mold, and bacterial proliferation, between 2005 and 2007 several European institutions partnered with RGI in the European Cordis project. The goal was to prevent biological threats and protect collections in museums, libraries, and archives without relying on chemical substances.
ABIOS® – Air Quality Control
The outcome of these studies is called ABIOS® (Aerosol Biological Sterilizer), a machine designed and patented by RGI. It draws in the ambient air, sterilizes it, and releases it back into the environment free of microorganisms.
Thanks to this innovation, a new key concept in the field of prevention has emerged: safeguarding conservation environments.
The benefits
To help maintain optimal conditions, RGI offers multiple solutions tailored to specific parameters. In addition to installing equipment for microclimate control and monitoring, RGI employs ABIOS® with the following benefits:
• Reduces the spread of biological contaminants (mold, fungi, bacteria, and viruses);
• Creates a healthier environment for both artworks and people;
• Can operate safely in the presence of staff and visitors;
• Allows for uninterrupted, continuous operation.
If you have any questions or curiosities, feel free to contact us — we’ll be happy to answer!
