The Centre National des Sciences et Technologies Nucléaires (CNSTN)’s pilot-scale gamma irradiation facility employs this nuclear technique to disinfect and preserve a wide array of historical objects. This process involves exposing artifacts to a controlled dose of gamma rays, effectively sterilising them by eliminating pests and microorganisms that cause damage and degradation.
Gamma irradiation offers a non-destructive method suitable for delicate and sensitive items that cannot withstand traditional disinfection methods. The process ensures that artifacts are sterilised without significantly altering their physical or chemical properties. Examples of items treated at the CNSTN include metal armchairs covered by leather and textile, tapestries, official clothes of the Bey, wooden musical instruments, and mummified animals. The successful application of gamma irradiation in Tunisia showcases the critical role of nuclear techniques in safeguarding and preserving cultural heritage for future generations, ensuring the long-term integrity of these important historical and artistic treasures.