The article discusses the importance of preventive conservation and risk management in safeguarding cultural heritage. It highlights the CollectionCare system, which integrates cutting-edge technologies such as LP-WAN, cloud computing, and big data to predict the behaviour of materials in cultural objects. By utilising wireless sensors and IoT technology, the system enables continuous environmental monitoring in museums to ensure the preservation of valuable collections. Data collected includes temperature, humidity, light, pollutants, and vibrations, allowing for real-time analysis and proactive conservation measures.
The interdisciplinary collaboration involved in the development of the CollectionCare system emphasises the need for innovative tools to monitor and control environmental conditions in cultural institutions. By deploying sensors that gather data on various parameters, the system aims to provide accurate insights into the degradation mechanisms affecting cultural heritage. Through data processing and visualisation, the system can predict future damage and offer advanced functionalities for environmental monitoring systems.
The project’s focus on sustainable resource management and the development of precise, versatile, user-friendly, cost-effective devices underscores the importance of minimising environmental impact while ensuring the long-term preservation of cultural artefacts. Supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, the CollectionCare project represents a significant step towards enhancing preventive conservation practices and risk management strategies in the cultural heritage sector.
