Building materials and conservation

Geomycology and the broader study of microbial interactions with minerals sit at the intersection of Earth science and conservation, examining how fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms chemically and physically alter rocks, stone monuments, historic mortars, and metal surfaces over time. These biological agents drive weathering through acid secretion, salt crystallization, and enzymatic activity, making them central to understanding why ancient buildings and archaeological sites deteriorate—and how that deterioration might be slowed or reversed. Researchers are actively working to characterize the microbial communities colonizing heritage materials across different climates, since the same organisms that damage stone can sometimes be harnessed for bioremediation, selectively removing harmful salts or consolidating weakened substrates. A persistent challenge is distinguishing biological damage from purely physical and chemical weathering, and translating laboratory findings about microbial behavior into conservation treatments that are safe, durable, and compatible with fragile historic fabric.

Works

68,888

Total citations

437,574

Keywords

GeomycologyBiodeteriorationBioremediationCultural HeritageRock WeatheringMicrobial Diversity