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The use of acid free paper based storage boxes
and/or acid free paper and cotton fabric have the benefit of insulating the
accessioned textile from changes in relative humidity during the winter months.
The cardboard box provides a dark microclimate that “over buffers”
so the RH inside an acid free box in Minnesota or Michigan or Massachusetts
will thwart the lowering of the moisture content of the antique textile inside
it. Drying out the interior of the microclimate is slow enough that the more
humid higher set point of the RH is re-established by the HVAC (Heating
Ventilating and Air Conditioning system)—spring weather—before the
box interior dries down. This is one reason that cardboard boxes should be seen
as a geographical or climate related storage solution. [I wrote about this in
the TSG AIC papers in 1992]. Mary W. Ballard Senior Textiles Conservator, Museum Conservation Institute, Smithsonian
Institution tel: 301-238-1210 fax: 301-238-3709 email ballardm@xxxxxx From: Hello all, A committee here at the museum where I work has suggested that, as
needed, we replace acid-free cardboard boxes with lidded sterilite
storage containers for vault storage of our quilts. The
containers can be seen at these two web pages: Since they are made from polypropylene, there is no issue of pH.
The Material Safety Data Sheet shows a melting point of 130-150
degrees C. It also says "Adequate ventilation must be provided
to remove fumes generated" and that pellets used for making them have
"a slightly paraffinic odor." Has anyone used such products for textile storage? Does anyone
have any thoughts or comments about using these containers for this purpose? One advantage is the cost: very low, and the items are available
locally. I know that static can build up on coroplast storage boxes (also
made from polypropylene) so can I assume that these containers would also have
static build up? Thank you in advance. Judy Schwender Curator of Collections / Registrar Museum of the American Quilter's Society (270) 442-8856 Be a PS3 game guru. |