mildew
A growth caused by micro-organisms, whose spores,
in a moist, warm environment, become molds. They
derive their food from the substance on which they
form, e.g., the materials of a book. During their
growth they produce citric, gluconic, oxalic, or
other organic acids, that can damage paper,
leather, cloth, etc. They also at times produce
color bodies, leading to staining which is
difficult to remove.
In counteracting mildew, every part of the
affected book must be treated with the inhibitor
most suited for it. The best preventatives,
however, are thorough cleanliness, sunlight, dry
circulating air, and relatively low temperature.
See also: FUNGI ;
MOLD (4) . (144 , 363 )
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