Vacuum packaging

Mark Clarke <markey<-a t->gn< . >apc< . >org> writes

>Subject: Mold
>...
>We are getting a food vacuum-packer which takes bags around A4. The
>bags may not be archival polyester, but importantly they and the
>equipment are cheaply available locally. Master copies of important
>documents and back-up floppy discs will be going into these.
>...
>Comments or expressions of alarm more
>than welcome,

Most vacuum packaging machines are available with a nitrogen purge
option.. the nitrogen from the canister is very dry, and this might
be useful to you.

Also, be certain to research the different barrier films available
for making bags for the vacuum packaging machine.  Find a plastics
"convertor" (or two) near a major city, and ask about options.  With
a little perseverance you will be surprised at the range of
materials available (barrier levels for oxygen and moisture are
published on "spec sheets", and vary widely in both "type" of
plastic and manufacturer).

You might also want to consider the addition of a small package of
Oxygen Scavenger to these sealed packages- it will not only keep O2
levels very low, but will also absorb moisture as it works.

Please let me know how this project works out.

Jerry Shiner
Keepsafe Systems- A Supplier of Barrier Films and Oxygen Scavenger, etc.

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                  Conservation DistList Instance 10:74
                Distributed: Thursday, February 20, 1997
                       Message Id: cdl-10-74-002
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