Hi,

That would depend on the collection.  Masonite is a fairly common material
to fabricate exhibit components from.  Another, somewhat more common one is
MDF board or Medium Density Fiberboard...this is like super masonite.  These
should always be coated with a latex interior paint that has plenty of time
to cure.  Depending on the objects that will be in contact with the painted
surface, a barrier of clear mylar might be in order.  You should always
check with a competent conservator regarding the objects displayed.  Please see:

http://www.cr.nps.gov/csd/publications/conserveogram/cons_toc.html

This is a list of publications regarding collections and their care
published by The  National Park Service.  They are in PDF format and
download quickly.  Somewhere in there they adress the proper materials for
exhibit mounts and cases, etc.

Frank Gregory
http://homepages.go.com/~fjgregory/first.html


At 05:15 PM 03/02/2001 -0500, elizabeth Nora wrote:
>Hi. I was wondering if anyone knew anything about masonite.  Is it dangerous
>to have near collections?  I would appreciate any response.
>
>Elizabeth Nohra
>Mahoning Valley Historical Society
>Arms Family Museum of Local History
>Youngstown, Ohio
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