Biological colonization and deterioration of mortars by phototrophic organisms

Abstract

In the last years, considerable studies on the effect of phototrophic organisms (cyanobacteria, algae, lichens, mosses and vascular plants) on cultural heritage properties have been carried out. The data indicate that these organisms, instead of having an irrelevant role, actively participate in the deteriorating processes of artificial building materials. This paper reviews recent research on mortar colonization and biodeterioration.