Anoxia

The use of anoxic enclosures might help with three recent DistList
topics:

Mummy in Pakistan

    While an anoxic environment will not destroy mold growth, it
    will retard or stop it's spread. This might also slow or stop
    the "browning" of portions of the mummy if it is due to
    oxidation or the spread of the mold.  A properly designed
    package can also control humidity within the enclosure, and will
    protect against infestation.

    A number of anoxic envelopes could be used if portions of the
    mummy are to be examined separately from the body, allowing safe
    storage. Envelopes can be opened, (reprovisioned with oxygen
    scavenger) and resealed as is necessary. Anoxic packaging needs
    no investment in equipment, and can be done by untrained staff.

Copper photogravure plates

    Packaging the plates in a high barrier transparent envelope
    (ESCAL) with a stable combination desiccant and oxygen-scavenger
    (RP-A System) might be indicated in this situation to prevent
    further degradation. Desiccating oxygen-scavengers were
    originally designed for metals storage.

Storing cosmetics

    Storing cosmetics in an anoxic environment would slow oxidation
    of organic compounds. A moisture neutral oxygen-scavenger (RP-K
    System) would be indicated. Transparent packaging (ESCAL) would
    allow for examination of any indicators of off-gassing or colour
    changes. While the RP system also absorbs corrosive gasses,
    another absorbent could be used within the package. Another
    favourable advantage of this storage system may be the security
    and labelling issues for a collection of related small items-
    many individual items can be sealed into a single package.

Keepsafe is now stocking RP-A, RP-K, Ageless oxygen scavengers, as
well as ESCAL barrier film. More information at:
<URL:http://www.gowncare.com>

Jerry Shiner
Keepsafe Systems
Micro-climate and Oxygen-free storage for Professional Conservators
800-683-4696
Fax: 416-703-5991


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 14:30
                Distributed: Tuesday, November 21, 2000
                       Message Id: cdl-14-30-002
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