Archives and museum collections contain diverse objects composed of organic materials such as paper, wood, leather, natural fibre, bone, cotton, etc. The organic materials are highly hygroscopic in nature and absorbs moisture quickly.
Effects of Uncontrolled Humidity
- Micro-organism growth
- Loss of artifacts and historic items
Conducive environmental conditions are among the most significant factors in the preservation of archives and museums.
General Recommendations
Cool and dry environment is preferred for preserving the organic material at archives and museums. It is recommended that storage of paper-based records, temperature should be maintained at 20°C and RH level at 30-50%.
Bry-Air Solutions
Bry-Air desiccant dehumidifiers, when used in conjunction with air conditioning, can provide the perfect environmental storage conditions for all sorts of valuable artifacts, documents and works of art. Bry-Air dehumidifiers provide a low humidity environment which prevents microbial attack. The dry air is often enough for preservation without necessarily involving temperature control.
Large and famous museums, churches and libraries use only dehumidification without temperature control to save and preserve the priceless treasures of the world.
Partial Reference List
- Akrib Negara, Malaysia
- Language and Literature Centre, Faculty of Science, Brunei
- Gulf Library, UAE
- Thailand Princess Library
- Central of H.H., Dalai Lama, India
- International Islamic University, Malaysia
- Library of Tibetan Works, Dharamshala, India
- Library, Delhi College of Engineering, India
- Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, Shillong, India