Ashley,
My understanding is that the “oily” rainbow effect
is typically the result of plasticizers in materials that contain vinyl(probably
PVC) migrating to the surface. It will make them tend to stick together as well.
In any case the appearance of that material over time is unquestionably bad for
the objects stored within.
You should probably do a little basic testing to determine what
it is, and if you really need to replace them. Basic stretch/burn/melt tests
should tell you what you have.
Mark Janzen
Registrar/Collections Manager
Ulrich Museum of Art
Martin H. Bush Outdoor Sculpture Collection
316-978-5850
From: Museum discussion
list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Ashley Tate
Sent: Wednesday, January 16, 2008 1:04 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Oily Photo Sleeve
I have noticed a strange effect on some of the photograph
sleeves currently housing photos in our archives. The sleeves are clear, maybe
polyester. And some of them have what looks to be moisture inside the
sleeve. The "moisture" has a swirly rainbow look, like you might see
if you spilt oil on pavement on a sunny day. At first I thought
it was moisture trapped in the sleeve, but now I'm wondering if the effect is
just part of the material. Do any of you know what this could be?
Thanks!
Ashley
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