Info
Provider: GA ČR
Solution time: 2024-2026
Project No: 24-10395S
Biodeterioration of building materials is a worldwide problem affecting all types of buildings. It is caused by microbial colonization of surfaces. The microbial growth and enzymatic activity then results in aesthetic problems and material deterioration. The growth of microorg. is prevented by addition of synthetic biocides or nanoparticles into the building materials. Rules for their use due to their ecotoxicity are becoming stricter, also their effectivity is influenced by various factors as stability and leachability. Therefore, more eco-friendly biocides are being searched. Essential oils are natural compounds with potent in vitro inhibitory against various microorg. colonizing building materials. So far, little is known about their activity and possible deleterious effect on materials, when incorporated into coatings. It can be expected that due to their volatility and relatively high biodegradability and hydrophobicity, they can become ineffective. Nevertheless, these drawbacks can be overcome by their encapsulation in various materials already used in building coatings.
Principal investigator
