Alexandra -

I would recommend that you look into using diatomaceous earth - as it is used as a natural "green" pest control and so should work well in an exhibit case. Since it does contain microscopic minerals in a fine dust and can be abrasive you need to keep it contained as the dust could be abrasive to collections.

Here is the Wiki on it:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diatomaceous_earth

As far as moisture issues go it depends on the inherent moisture in the dirt and also the ambient RH in the environment. If the dirt seems moist you can always dry out earth in an oven for several hours at 200 degrees or just put it out for some time and let it acclimate to the new environment.

Cheers!
Dave

David Harvey
Senior Conservator and Museum Consultant
Los Angeles CA



On Thu, Dec 10, 2009 at 6:41 AM, Alexandra Trumbull <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
I work for a company that is in the process of developing an exhibit to tell its story. Part of the story involves travel, so the contracted exhibit team wants to use real earth in one of the cases.

One major concern is that the exhibit will be housed in a mixed-use space where food will be served on occasion. Luckily there are only very few authentic objects being exhibited, and the case with the dirt will have only duplicate photos and letters.

I know that the earth might be a pest attractant, especially since it will come from whatever local garden shop is accessible. Besides sequestering the dirt in an incoming collections area, perhaps spreading it out and letting it sit for a few weeks before introduced it to the exhibit, what suggestions do people have for mitigating its likelihood to attract pests or retain moisture within the case?

Any suggestions or insights are welcome on or off-list. I am in the position to make suggestions to the team, but not to prohibit their plans alltogether.

Thank you,

Alexandra Trumbull




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