Microbiological diversity in the Unfinished Sacristy building of the Convent of Christ, Tomar, and evaluation of its biocide-based control

A study on the Convent of Christ in Tomar, Portugal, revealed that biocide effectiveness varies significantly depending on the type of microorganism present on limestone walls. Benzalkonium chloride proved more effective against bacterial isolates, while Biotin T showed better performance against fungal isolates. The research characterized microorganisms colonizing the Unfinished Sacristy using classical microbiology techniques and tested three biocides—Biotin T, benzalkonium chloride, and a paint additive—to assess their inhibition effects on microbial growth. This finding highlights the need for tailored biocide-based control strategies to effectively manage microbial colonization in historic structures.

Mateus, D. M. R., Silva, R. B., Costa, F. M. C., & Coroado, J. P. F. (2013). Microbiological diversity in the Unfinished Sacristy building of the Convent of Christ, Tomar, and evaluation of its biocide-based control. Conservar Património, 17, 11–20. https://doi.org/10.14568/cp2012005