Kate Roberts ([log in to unmask]) wrote:
: Vapour phase corrosion inhibitors - has anyone used them successfully for
: the storage of iron objects indoors?Any information gratefully received.Kate
: Roberts
 
Problems with vapor phase inhibitors are both human toxicity and the need to
maintain a sealed environment for effectiveness.  If the environment can be
sealed, relative humidty control with silica gel or even the use of non-
oxygen atmospheres may be possible too.
 
One idea we have been looking into is the use of vapor barrier plastics (like
Marvelseal) to create pouches for iron objects.  Before the bag is sealed, it
could be flushed with nitrogen or argon, and an oxygen scavenger (Ageless)
enclosed.  The additional use of conditioned silica gel or organic scavengers
(activated charcoal, permanganate beads) may not be necessary.
 
Hope this isn't too technical.  It just points to hope for archaeological
materials.
 
John Burke
Head Conservator
The Oakland Museum of California