Research topics of LATHEMA focus on the development of green conservation strategies for the preservation of cultural heritage, exploiting in particular assimilation and biomineralization processes in microorganisms (bacteria and fungi).

(© MAlbini)

BIOPATINA –passivation of copper alloys

(Photograph courtesy of the archaeological service of Canton Bern, Switzerland)

MAIA – Desalination and stabilization of archaeological iron objects

(© Université de Neuchâtel)

MICMAC – Preservation of archaeological waterlogged wood

HELIX – biocleaning of historic or contemporary art metal artefacts