The Potential of <i>Aloe vera</i> and <i>Opuntia ficus-indica</i> Extracts as Biobased Agents for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage Metals
Background/Objectives: Biocorrosion, driven by microbial colonization and biofilm formation, poses a significant threat to the integrity of metal artifacts, particularly those composed of copper and its alloys. <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i>, a bacterial species that reduces nitrates, pla...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Metabolites |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2218-1989/15/6/386 |
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| Summary: | Background/Objectives: Biocorrosion, driven by microbial colonization and biofilm formation, poses a significant threat to the integrity of metal artifacts, particularly those composed of copper and its alloys. <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i>, a bacterial species that reduces nitrates, plays a key role in this process. This study explores the potential of two metabolite-rich plant extracts, <i>Aloe vera</i> and <i>Opuntia ficus-indica</i>, as sustainable biobased inhibitors of microbial-induced corrosion (MICOR). Methods: The antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of the extracts were evaluated using minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays, time-kill kinetics, and biofilm prevention and removal tests on copper, bronze, and brass samples. Spectrophotometric and microbiological methods were used to quantify bacterial growth and biofilm density. Results: Both extracts exhibited significant antibacterial activity, with MIC values of 8.3% (<i>v</i>/<i>v</i>). <i>A. vera</i> demonstrated superior bactericidal effects, achieving reductions of ≥3 log<sub>10</sub> in bacterial counts at lower concentrations. In antibiofilm assays, both extracts effectively prevented biofilm formation and reduced established biofilms, with <i>A. vera</i> exhibiting greater efficacy against them. The active metabolites—anthraquinones, phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins—likely contribute to these effects. Conclusions: These findings highlight the dual role of <i>A. vera</i> and <i>O. ficus-indica</i> extracts as both corrosion and biocorrosion inhibitors. The secondary metabolite profiles of these plants support their application as eco-friendly alternatives in the conservation of metal cultural heritage objects. |
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| ISSN: | 2218-1989 |