Fumigation of motor collection

A large motor collection is currently having a problem with a spider
infestation and are concerned about the possible health and safety
implications, so have consulted a pest control company with regards
to the possible fumigation of the museum space. They have in turn
consulted us about the possible detrimental effects of these
chemicals on the various collections materials, which includes a
very wide range of motor vehicles and motor bikes.

The proposed chemicals are: Tempo Residual Insecticide (by Bayer),
which contains beta cyfluthrIn (a pyrethroid), sulphuric acid and an
aqueous mixtures of 5-chloro-2-methyl-2H-isothiazol-3-one and
2-methyl-2H-isothiazol-3-one and Pestigas (by BOC Limited), which
contains solvent naphtha (petroleum), pyrethrum, carbon dioxide and
piperonyl butoxide. The Pestigas MSDS in particular warns of
potential problems if it comes into contact with plastics or
oil-based paints. The fumigants are most likely to be applied as
sprays or fogs.

I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with chemical
fumigation with this kind of collection or has any insights into the
possible problems with this approach.

Kasi Albert
Preventive Conservator
Artlab Australia
+61 8 8207 7520
Fax: +61 8 8207 7529


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 25:9
                 Distributed: Thursday, August 4, 2011
                        Message Id: cdl-25-9-021
                                  ***