Wasabi can protect ancient Egyptian papyrus from bacteria and fungi. This was demonstrated by a study in the journal. Archaeological Science (JAS).
The safety of priceless ancient Egyptian papyri is threatened by bacteria and fungi. Current cleaning and disinfection methods sometimes damage papyrus fibers or discolor paintings. Physical methods (ultraviolet or heat) are not always effective.
In a new study, scientists from the Grand Egyptian Museum have developed a green solution to the problem. They simulated microbiological contamination of papyrus samples with a variety of pigments, including red, yellow and blue. Treatment with wasabi vapor for 72 h inhibited microbial growth on both stained and unstained papyrus samples with 100% effectiveness.
Remarkably, this process increased the tensile strength of the papyrus by 26% without causing any visible change in the color or surface morphology of the artifacts.
The results of the study may have implications for conservation methods for other organic artifacts.
Previously near London to create Ruins of the ancient city of the Saxons.