Critical Knowledge Gaps in Environmental Risk Assessment and Prioritising Research

Abstract

The scientific underpinning for the effects of environment on highly transformed archaeological materials is weak. Archaeological iron has been intensively studied recently, but the three publications about copper alloys disagree on critical RH thresholds and no work on pollutant effects has been published. This paper will assess the present state of knowledge and identify critical knowledge gaps.The effect of VOCs on organic materials has received very little attention. A recently started project, MEMORI will address this issue. The effects of acetic acid and other VOCs will be assessed. A more economic measurement system will be developed to address the cost barrier presently impeding VOC analyses in heritage atmospheresThe balance of these risks may change in the future under the influence of climate change. Investigations to predict the changes inside buildings are underway. This information is crucial to prioritise future research to fill the gaps identified and formulate suitable, sustainable mitigation strategies.