This work package aims to explore the potential for a novel treatment systems based on nano-particles for use in the removal of fungal and algal (and possibly lichen and bacterial) growth from the surface of stone, plaster, mortar etc..

This task will start shortly after the beginning of the project and once suitable and representative survey sites have been identified following consultation with other partners in STONECORE. Once identified, up to 6 sites will be surveyed and assessed for the nature and scale of growth present and the impact this growth is having at the site (eg deterioration of the substrate, effects on indoor air quality). Samples of the growth will be collected and transported to the laboratories for IMSL for characterisation. The composition of the growth will be identified and a collection of isolates made such that model growths can be reporoduced at future times.

This task will explore the relationships between biological growth, the material on which it is growing and the environment in which the structure is located (as well as the area on that structure on the which the growth is occurring) as well as the causes of growth. The idea is to produce a database of species / consortia, material, environment interactions that can become a predictive tool in the future. The data-pack will include any potential hazards associated with the species present including any that any remediation processes might create / exacerbate. The causes of growth and prevention strategies (where appropriate) will be included.

One of the objectives of project STONECORE is to develop systems that can safely and effectively remove microbiological growth from materials. Some of these materials will form part of items of the built cultural heritage and so it is vital that the remedial treatment has no negative impact on them. For this reason a realistic laboratory model is required such that remedial treatments can be tested prior to their use on sensitive materials / structures.

The efficacy of nano-sol treatment systems for the removal of microbiological growth will be assessed using the growth model protocols developed in Sub-Task 3. Treatments will be applied and assessed for the efficacy at removing / killing microbiological growth in comparison with at least 2 existing technologies (probably Na HOCl and a quaternary ammonium compound). The potential to inhibit re-growth will also be assessed and impact of the treatment on growth and the substrate will be described fully. A set of protocols for testing remedial treatments for microbiological growth on structural materials will be developed