Biopassivation Method for the Preservation of Copper and Bronze Artefacts

A biopassivation method has been proposed as a new ecological and sustainable solution for preserving copper-based artefacts using selected microorganisms. This technology is based on the natural capacity of some fungi to form copper oxalates corroded surface alloys. Existing unstable pulverulent corrosion products are converted into an insoluble chemically stable biopatina that provides treated surfaces with stabilization process aesthetically attractive green color. treatment allows stabilize active induced example by chlorides prevent staining surrounding materials (stone pedestal, wall…) due leaching loss water-soluble (i.e. sulfates). The behavior performance have followed during aging procedures, which shown this stabilizes while having less chromatic variation compared more traditional protective systems. application protocol was then validated real cases such outdoor sculptures archaeological objects. Based these results, ready-to-use kit now conservators.