Scientists at the University of Naples have unveiled a revolutionary nanotechnology application designed to protect cultural heritage from the effects of climate-driven ocean acidification. The Atomic-Layer Deposition (ALD) technique creates a transparent, chemically inert film just a few atoms thick, providing a robust barrier against the corrosive salts and rising acidity levels threatening submerged archaeological sites.
The first field trials were successfully conducted on 1st-century Roman bronze busts found in the Bay of Naples. Unlike traditional resins, this nano-coating does not alter the aesthetic appearance of the patina and can be applied in-situ, offering a sustainable long-term solution for preserving coastal and underwater monuments in a changing environment.