Micro-climate control for paper heritage as a way of preventive conservation in museums

Abstract

Some of the museum collections are archival materials which include unique manuscripts (the 1st primary source of knowledge). They are our invaluable documentary heritage of the past that reflect the rich cultural heritage like literature, history and medicine…etc. and must be preserved because of being irreplaceable for present and future generations.Manuscripts are very sensitive materials that have to be preserved in a propermicro-climate showcases. They may rapidly deteriorate if they are put in bad conditions and might be lost forever. There are also additional factors rather than environmental control must be in consideration when thinking about manuscripts like light, security, vibration…etc. Micro-climate is simply the condition inside an enclosed space whether in the whole museum (large area) or in a showcase (small area). By creating airtight cases that regulate the climate in a specific volume around an artifact. It differs in humidity, temperature and air cleanliness from the surrounding environment and also mechanical stability. It is important in the preservation of irreplaceable priceless artifacts to minimize the deterioration. That’s why a controlled micro-climate keeps an ideal individual climate in a practical way than adjusting an entire exhibition, room or building climate.