Humidity in file cabinets

Fire resistant cabinets are lined with an intumescent material such as
plaster or similar hygroscopic substances.  Their job is to release
moisture when heated to keep the contents cool.  They also absorb a
great deal of moisture which then "conditions" the interior of the
cabinet (or safe) to very high humidities.  There are a few
manufacturers that use "dry" linings but you would have to inquire of
each one to find what they are using and when.  If it were possible to
dehydrate such a cabinet, it would be a poor idea as it would also rob
the lining of much of the moisture necessary to impart fire resistance.
How about using standard file cabinets in a fire-resistant room
constructed of more usual structural materials, and perhaps tied into a
climate control system?

Geoffrey Brown Kelsey Museum
University of Michigan

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                  Conservation DistList Instance 7:75
                  Distributed: Monday, April 18, 1994
                        Message Id: cdl-7-75-002
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