Types of materials

It is essential to select inert materials that will not off-gas and cause harm to the objects on display – materials such as woods, paints, adhesives, and sealants can off-gas harmful emissions that cause irreversible damage.

Exhibition Duration

No collection object should be on display for more than 6 – 12 months. The length of display is dependant on the materials present in the object.

Security

The case is located in a secure location within the library, on the first level mezzanine. The preliminary case design has indicated that access is from either end with a fixed glass front.

Materials for the case

The materials used in the construction of the case are critical in the preservation of the artefacts on display. All materials used must be inert, and archival when in contact with the object. Certain products can off-gas harmful pollutants that will deteriorate the objects on display. Products that can have adverse affect on objects include: paints, varnishes, wood, carpets, padding, fabrics, adhesives, plastics, paper board products and gaskets.

Wood products should be avoided, as wood generates volatile acids that cause deterioration of most artefacts. The most harmful are: oak, sweet chestnut, birch, teak, western red cedar, and douglas fir. Some wood is more acceptable (such as pine, poplar and aspen) but all surfaces must be covered with a barrier film to reduce off-gasing. Composite woods such as MDF and plywood are only

Anodised aluminium, coated steel, uncoated Perspex, and glass are highly recommended in case construction.

Options for barrier films include active films that absorb the harmful gases and passive films that only provide a barrier. Active films include Marvel seal® a

Object Supports

The support of the object is to both display the object to the public and ensure that the object is not physically damaged while on display. Custom-made supports are highly recommended for collection objects and materials for support should be inert and archival. The support should be constructed to bear the entire weight of the object and to minimise stress on seams, bindings, handles etc. In some cases the object may require internal structures to provide adequate support.

Recommended materials

Materials that can be used include archival boards and papers, archival polyester, polypropylene and poly-carbonates. Support boards include Tycore® and Coreflute ® and archival corrugated boards.

Fabrics should be un-dyed cotton, linen, polyester and cotton-poly blends as wool emits sulphur compounds and silk emits acids . All fabrics should be washed to remove sizing. If a dyed fabric is used, then a barrier layer is recommended between the object and the fabric or washed until water is clear before use.