Abstract

Historical and archaeological leather artifacts are found in various locations (museums, libraries, archives etc.), but in some of these places, they are exposed to improper conditions. Leather artifacts represent and carry multiple values (religious, scientific, cultural, historical, civilisation and artistic) that should be preserved from different deterioration factors. Fungal contamination and infection are considered one of the major aspects of deterioration for these artifacts. This study aims to conduct an integrated study of fungal growth on historical leather artifacts, and to explain the aspects and mechanism of their deterioration. Traditional and advanced techniques of disinfection used for killing and removal of fungi are discussed (chemical disinfection, use of natural materials such as essential oils and physical techniques such as gamma radiation, laser and plasma). The study confirmed that fungi presence on and inside leather artifacts can lead to the breakdown of collagen. All disinfection techniques have many advantages and some disadvantages. The choice of method for disinfection depends on the condition and size of the leather object, and on the species and nature of the fungi.