What is lyophilization ?

Lyophilization (also called freeze-drying) is a process by which water is taken out of the object, specimen or organism, making them more stable to ambient temperature.   This technique is well-known in the food industry, pharmaceuticals but also for the restoration of archaeological artifacts, archives, wickerwork or water filled textile

The physical principle that occurs is called sublimation where ice crystals go directly from the solid state to the gaseous state, without going through the liquid stage.  One of the greatest advantage is that specimens keep their natural shape and in most cases, their colors. The absence of chemical products is a considerable advantage when manipulation occurs.

The lyophilized specimens that you see here are :