Silica gel

What is the current thinking about the use of silica gel in the base
of exhibit cases as a humidity control agent? Does a dehumectant
absorb moisture in the case materials before it begins to affect the
humidity in the upper section where the object is displayed? If the
temperature and humidity is controlled and steady in the general
environment of the exhibit area, is the creation of a
microenvironment within an exhibit case generally sufficient without
the addition of silica gel? In other words, just how effective is
silica gel in the base of an exhibit case, providing that humidity
readings within the display case are of an acceptable level?

Vera Espinola
Curator/exhibit conservator
Florida International Museum
St. Petersburg, Florida

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                  Conservation DistList Instance 11:70
                Distributed: Thursday, February 12, 1998
                       Message Id: cdl-11-70-011
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