Passive environmental control

Lynn Campbell <lynn.campbell [at] ccc__govt__nz> writes

>Can anyone suggest any passive systems that could help a heritage
>building that does not have power.  The building is close to the sea
>and has a large garden surrounding it. The displays are in glass
>cases and they are considering the use of silica gel as one method
>but would be interested in any other procedures that could help to
>protect their collections of archaeological and social history

I have found Intercept copper corrosion products a fantastic help in
improving air quality in showcases by including the impregnated
plastic in mounts, base-boards under showcase fabric etc.

Intercept also distribute small showcase fans with Intercept filters
(replaceable--they go black when depleted), providing air flow into
the case and scavenging the CL and S ions etc. from sea front air
sounds like a good idea. The showcase fans are AA battery run and
when I last tested 33 days left on all day and night. Obviously very
delicate textiles and paper objects would need to be protected from
direct airflow (flapping movement and potential mechanical damage)
but the circulation of air will help prevent mould growth and with
the added filtration will be beneficial. Admittedly changing
batteries and monitoring could become and issue depending on staff.
But it is worth considering.

Victoria Gill
Senior Conservator, Heritage consultant
Manila


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 25:15
                Distributed: Tuesday, September 20, 2011
                       Message Id: cdl-25-15-007
                                  ***