Rome's Capitoline Museums have launched a pioneering preservation project using Atomic-Layer Deposition (ALD) to protect their world-renowned marble collection. This technology creates a transparent, breathable shield only a few atoms thick, preventing urban pollutants, acid rain, and humidity from penetrating the stone's surface. Unlike traditional resins, this nano-coating does not alter the appearance of the marble and allows the stone to naturally regulate its moisture levels.
The project specifically targets outdoor sculptures and those located in areas with high visitor traffic, where fluctuating carbon dioxide levels can cause microscopic erosion. Conservators hope that this next-generation heritage tech will significantly reduce the frequency of invasive cleaning procedures. If successful, the ALD treatment is expected to be adopted by major museums worldwide to safeguard vulnerable limestone and marble monuments against the challenges of modern urban environments.