Investigations regarding the biodegradation of the cultural heritage. Case study of traditional embroidered peasant shirt (Maramures, Romania)

Abstract

The studied textile object is a traditional female embroidered peasant shirt, old of about 100 years, from a private collection. Bacteria and fungi were assessed through specific methods. Determination of most common fungi and yeasts, consists in: Penicillium spp., Cladosporium spp., Fusarium spp., Alternaria spp. and Candida spp. These can contribute to the fabric fiber bio-deterioration and, in order to emphasize such aspects, the SEM images obtained from the electronic microscope were analyzed; the contamination with fungi, yeasts and bacteria can also negatively influence the health condition of those who handle such pieces (storage rooms, museums, etc.) and of those who wear such objects (even occasionally). Evidence decontamination was made by treating them with Chitosan.