Preserving the Past with Gamma Rays: Real Case Studies from the Montecassino Abbey Collection

This study explores gamma irradiation as a non-invasive and residue-free method for the conservation of historical documents, focusing on two case studies from the Montecassino Abbey collection. Gamma rays from cobalt-60 source effectively eliminate biodeteriogens such as fungi, molds, and insects, without inducing radioactivity. This approach leaves no harmful residues, and is fully compatible with restoration practices, offering a faster, safer alternative to conventional chemical treatments. In this work, fragments of parchment and paper were irradiated at 8 kGy and analyzed before and after gamma exposure by coupling Raman spectroscopy, FTIR/ATR, and colorimetric techniques. FTIR/ATR and Raman spectroscopy results confirmed the structural stability of collagen and cellulose, with no remarkable molecular alterations. Colorimetric data showed minimal changes (ΔE00 < 1.8), indicating no significant impact on visual perception. These findings demonstrate the potential of gamma radiation as a reliable and efficient conservation tool for safeguarding Cultural Heritage.