Characterization of indoor gaseous and particulate pollutants for conservation in museums and churches

This study is focused on the environmental analysis of gaseous and particulate air pollutants in the context of the conservation of our Cultural Heritage. A variety of analytical techniques has been applied to the different types of samples. The first main topic of this work deals with the investigation of the concentration of pollutant gases and the chemical composition of tine particulate matter for the conservation of ancient stained glass windows in several famous European cathedrals and churches. The second main topic is related to the determination of outdoor and indoor generated gaseous and particulate air pollutants for the preservation of museum objects in galleries and showcases of eight museums.;The results obtained for the measured air pollutants in the three investigated cathedrals show that the installation of a double glazing in order to protect the medieval stained glass windows can be considered to have a predominantly positive effect on the conservation of these windows.;The obtained results show furthermore that museum showcases protect works of art from aggressive outdoor generated air pollutants, but on the other hand they can accumulate high concentrations of dangerous formic and acetic acid. Depending on the kind of pollutant being especially dangerous for a certain object of art, the display in a showcase can improve, but also deteriorate the conditions for its conservation. Very different situations can be encountered between locations and no universal advice can be given to conservators. Nevertheless some basic principles and often reoccurring problems in Cultural Heritage environments could be identified in this work.