Multistep approach to control microbial fouling of historic building materials by aerial phototrophs

Abstract

The scientific multistep approach described herein is a result of two years of research into a control method against microbial fouling and biodeterioration of historic building materials by phototrophs. A series of tests were conducted to select the best antifouling agent for eliminating ‘green’ coatings and protecting surfaces against biofouling. Of the seven active compounds, two with the best penetration abilities were subjected to a photosynthetic activity inhibition test using confocal microscopy. Of the two, a quaternary ammonium salt (QAC) – didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC) – was found to be the most effective. Ten biocides containing QACs at different concentrations were then tested against ‘green’ coatings on wood, brick and plaster, with the best four being selected for further research in model conditions. As a result, biocides containing >14% (v v^–1) DDAC were found to be successful antifouling agents for protecting historical materials against biodeterioration by phototrophs.

Keywords:

• Algae
• biocides
• biodeterioration
• biofouling
• building materials
• cyanobacteria

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the staff of the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum for making the facilities available for the research.

Disclosure statement

The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript. The authors declare no competing financial interest.

Additional information

Funding

The study was conducted as a part of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Preservation Plan and supported by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation under Grant [5/2012/GPK].