4.3 Preservation Strategies and Environmental Control
7 min read•july 29, 2024
Preserving collections is a complex task that requires understanding various threats to objects. From to pests and environmental factors, each agent of deterioration poses unique risks. Curators must be vigilant in identifying and mitigating these threats to ensure long-term preservation.
is key to protecting collections. This involves , , and implementing . By focusing on non-invasive actions and developing comprehensive strategies, institutions can minimize damage and reduce the need for invasive treatments.
Agents of Deterioration
Physical, Chemical, and Biological Threats
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The ten primary agents of deterioration are physical forces, thieves and vandals, fire, water, pests, pollutants, light, , incorrect , and
Each agent poses unique risks to different types of materials
Physical forces can cause damage through impact, shock, vibration, pressure, and abrasion
Fragile objects like ceramics, glass, and paintings are particularly susceptible to physical damage
, such as pollutants, can accelerate object deterioration through abrasion, corrosion, and staining
Porous materials (paper, textiles) and metals are especially reactive to pollutants
, including pests and mold, can cause irreparable damage to collections
Pests, such as insects and rodents, can eat, burrow, and leave behind residues on objects
Organic materials like wood, paper, and textiles are most attractive to pests
Mold growth can occur on a variety of materials due to high humidity or
Environmental Factors and Material Sensitivity
, particularly ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation, can fade colors, yellow papers, and weaken fibers over time
Sensitive materials like textiles, photographs, and works on paper are most vulnerable to light damage
Incorrect temperature and relative humidity can lead to various forms of deterioration
Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause warping, cracking, and dimensional changes in objects
High humidity can promote mold growth and corrosion of metals
Water damage from floods, leaks, or high humidity can lead to warping, staining, corrosion, and mold growth on a variety of materials
Fire can quickly destroy entire collections, especially those containing flammable materials like paper, textiles, and plastics
Smoke and water damage from fire suppression efforts can also harm objects
Dissociation, or the loss of object information or context, can occur due to poor documentation, labeling, or storage practices
This can diminish the research and educational value of collections
Preventive Conservation Measures
Risk Assessment and Planning
Preventive conservation focuses on non-invasive actions to avoid or delay object damage and minimize the need for interventive treatments
Conducting risk assessments helps identify potential threats to collections and prioritize mitigation strategies
This involves evaluating building conditions, environmental factors, storage and display practices, and institutional policies
Developing emergency preparedness and response plans is crucial for protecting collections during disasters or unexpected events
Plans should include procedures for evacuation, salvage, and recovery of objects
Staff training and regular plan updates are essential for effective implementation
Environmental Monitoring and Control
Implementing proper storage and handling procedures can minimize physical risks to objects
Using , , and can prevent damage from abrasion, impact, and pressure
Establishing guidelines for object handling, transport, and display can reduce the likelihood of accidents or misuse
Limiting light exposure can slow down the rate of photochemical damage to sensitive objects
Using , , and timed switches can help control light levels
Rotating light-sensitive objects on display can minimize cumulative exposure
Reducing exposure to pollutants can be achieved through various methods
Installing can remove airborne pollutants from storage and display areas
Regular cleaning and using can minimize the buildup of dust and off-gassing from harmful compounds
(IPM) programs can effectively control pest populations and minimize chemical use
IPM emphasizes prevention through sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and monitoring pest activity
Targeted treatments, such as trapping or freezing, can be used to address infestations without widespread chemical applications
Security and Disaster Preparedness
Establishing can deter theft and vandalism
Implementing access restrictions, surveillance systems, and staff training can help prevent unauthorized entry or handling of objects
Conducting regular inventories and maintaining up-to-date documentation can aid in the recovery of missing objects
Installing and maintaining fire detection and suppression systems is essential for protecting collections from fire damage
Smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers should be strategically placed and regularly inspected
Staff should be trained in fire safety procedures and the use of suppression equipment
Preventing water damage involves a combination of building maintenance and storage practices
Regular inspection and maintenance of roofs, pipes, and drainage systems can prevent leaks and floods
Using water alarms and storing objects away from potential leak sources can minimize the risk of water damage
Having emergency supplies, such as plastic sheeting and absorbent materials, on hand can aid in quick response to water intrusion
Environmental Control for Stability
Temperature and Relative Humidity
Environmental monitoring involves regularly measuring and recording temperature, relative humidity (RH), and light levels in storage and display areas
and can provide continuous monitoring and alert staff to any deviations from acceptable ranges
Ideal temperature and RH ranges vary depending on the material composition of objects, but generally, cool and stable conditions with minimal fluctuations are recommended
For mixed collections, a temperature between 18-21°C (64-70°F) and RH between 45-55% are common target ranges
Certain materials, like metals and photographs, may require lower RH levels around 30-40% to prevent corrosion or deterioration
Environmental control can be achieved through various methods
can regulate temperature and humidity levels throughout a building
Portable humidifiers/dehumidifiers can address localized issues or provide additional control in specific areas
Localized enclosures, such as display cases or storage cabinets, can create with optimal conditions for sensitive objects
Light Levels and Seasonal Adjustments
Light levels should be kept as low as possible while still allowing for visibility and access
Recommended light levels vary based on material sensitivity
For highly sensitive materials (textiles, photographs), levels should not exceed 50 lux with no UV radiation
For moderately sensitive materials (paintings, plastics), levels should not exceed 200 lux with minimal UV radiation
can be used to measure and monitor light levels in different areas
Implementing seasonal adjustments can help mitigate environmental risks
Reducing light levels during summer months can minimize fading and heat gain from sunlight
Adjusting HVAC settings to account for changes in outdoor temperature and humidity can maintain stable indoor conditions
Rotating objects on display can prevent prolonged exposure to environmental stressors
Regularly reviewing and analyzing environmental data can help identify patterns, trends, and potential issues
This information can guide decision-making for environmental control strategies and help prioritize improvements to storage and display conditions
Conservation Treatment Plans
Condition Assessments and Treatment Goals
Conservation treatment involves direct interventions to stabilize, repair, or restore damaged objects
Treatments should be minimally invasive, reversible when possible, and thoroughly documented
Developing a treatment plan requires a thorough assessment of an object's condition
This includes examining the object's structure, materials, and any visible damages or alterations
Non-destructive analysis techniques, such as X-radiography or infrared imaging, can provide additional information about an object's condition and history
should be established based on the object's condition, institutional priorities, and available resources
Goals may range from basic stabilization to full aesthetic restoration, depending on the object's intended use and significance
Ethical considerations, such as preserving original materials and respecting the artist's intent, should also guide treatment decisions
Collaboration and Documentation
Conservators often specialize in specific material types (paintings, textiles, paper) and have advanced training in chemistry, material science, and hands-on techniques
Collaborating with conservators who have relevant expertise can ensure appropriate and effective treatments
Collaboration with other specialists, such as scientists, historians, and artists, can provide valuable insights and expertise throughout the treatment process
Scientists can assist with material analysis and developing new treatment methods
Historians can provide context about an object's history, production, and cultural significance
Artists can offer guidance on aesthetic choices and techniques for contemporary works
Proper documentation is essential for communicating treatment decisions, tracking object conditions over time, and informing future care strategies
Written reports should include a description of the object, its condition before treatment, the treatment proposal, and any changes made during treatment
Photographic documentation should capture the object before, during, and after treatment, as well as any significant details or anomalies
Treatment records should be maintained in a secure, accessible format and linked to the object's catalog information
Treatment Techniques and Evaluation
Common conservation treatments include , consolidation of fragile materials, repair of tears or losses, removal of old restorations, and application of
Surface cleaning can remove dirt, grime, and accretions that obscure an object's appearance and contribute to deterioration
Consolidation involves applying adhesives or consolidants to strengthen weakened or flaking materials
Repairing tears or losses can improve an object's structural integrity and aesthetic appearance
Removing old restorations, such as discolored varnishes or inappropriate repairs, can reveal an object's original surface and improve its overall condition
Applying protective coatings, such as varnishes or waxes, can help prevent future damage from environmental factors or handling
Post-treatment evaluations and monitoring can help assess the effectiveness of interventions and identify any unintended consequences or new vulnerabilities
Regularly inspecting treated objects can detect any changes or deterioration that may require further attention
Gathering feedback from stakeholders, such as curators, researchers, and visitors, can provide valuable insights into the impact of treatments on an object's interpretation and use
Adjusting environmental conditions or treatment protocols based on post-treatment evaluations can help optimize long-term preservation strategies