Assessment of the potential effects of plants with their secreted biochemicals on the biodeterioration of archaeological stones

Abstract

Archaeological sites and structures suffer from several factors of deterioration. The present survey focuses on the biodeterioration by plants, which is not less important than the rest of the deterioration factors; moreover, in many cases, it leads to their occurrence. Despite the importance of plants in our lives and their aesthetic appearance around stone monuments, they pose a threat to their survival. Therefore, it is necessary to have such a review to detail this topic and understand its severity by identifying the most common and harmful plant species, the co-factors for their existence, and the mechanism of damage. Physical damage through causing cracks, detachment, and loss of structural integrity and chemical damage from root secretions-biological damage by encouraging microorganisms and insects supported by examples of sites that have been damaged by plants. The results will help to apply appropriate methods of prevention and control by mentioning the advantages and disadvantages of each method.