Best Practices in the Disinfection of Cultural Heritage Artefacts and Archives Using Ionizing Radiation

Cultural heritage artifacts hold immense historical and societal value, as they reflect the origins, identity and essence of multiple generations. However, the organic materials in these artifacts are prone to biodegradation, accelerated by factors like climate change. To address this issue, the IAEA has supported extensive research into radiation technology as a viable means of safeguarding and conserving cultural heritage. This publication serves as a manual for cultural heritage protection, bridging the gap between radiation science and heritage conservation and explaining how radiation treatments offer swift, effective disinfection that surpass conventional methods. From climate change challenges to interdisciplinary collaboration, this publication empowers professionals to preserve our rich cultural legacy. It will be especially useful for radiation technologists who interact directly with various stakeholders, including cultural heritage professionals, conservators and individuals responsible for collections. In addition, it will be of interest to providers of irradiation services and to beginners who are encountering radiation technology application in the field of cultural heritage protection and conservation for the first time.