>On Fri, 14 Jun 1996, Jill Aszling wrote:
>
>> We store approximately 300 framed signed prints from our student lending
>> collection in rolling wood bins; these were made for us when we moved into
>> our new building in 1985.  They are made of 3/4 inch birch plywood and have
>> held up very well.
>
>When I took a preventive conservation workshop at the Smithsonian in 1987
>the conservators recommended board lumber as opposed to plywood for
>storage areas.  This is because the adhesives used in plywood and particle
>board give off formaldehyde fumes, which are undesirable from a preservation
>point of view.
>
>They also suggested that the board lumber be sealed with shellac.
>
>--Helen Glazer

Helen,
There is a wonderful product called Marvelseal.  It is a shiny
metallic-like substance that comes in VERY heavy rolls.  It can be used for
sealing new wood from off gassing.  You can iron it on, and if it tears in
the process, just patch it with small pieces.  I've used it since 1987 and
swear by it.   Back when I was Registrar at Milwaukee Public Museum I used
it to seal new crates.

It's a lot safer than shellac, and it doesn't smell.   A bit pricy, though,
but one roll will last several years.

It's manufactured by the Laminating and Coating Division of Ludlow Corp.
Back then they had an East Coast sales office in Charlotte, NC
(704/527-3647)

The divisional office is in Homer, Louisiana  (318/927-2531)  Keep in mind
the last time I ordered this stuff was 1987.  Be prepared if these numbers
are changed.

Cheers,
HBC

****************************************
Henry B. Crawford        Curator of History
[log in to unmask]     Museum of Texas Tech University
806/742-2442           Box 43191
FAX 742-1136             Lubbock, TX  79409-3191
***** "Rosencrantz and Gildenstern are dead!!" *****