Mould prevention of archive packaging based microenvironment intervention and regulation

Abstract

• The importance of the library environment for archival preservation. • Mildew proof and fire proof file packaging material. • Archive storage strategies for micro-environmental interventions. • Low carbon and environmental protection storage of archives. • Mildew proof and flame retardant properties of inorganic nanomaterials. Archives, books and other cultural classics represent precious cultural wealth in every nation. However, the interaction between the paper components and external environmental factors decreases paper durability, leading to the gradual loss of paper cultural relics. This includes the impact of fungi and fire on books, documents, maps and paper works of art leading to incalculable and irreversible cultural losses. In addition, fungal metabolites induce a wide range of allergic reactions that threaten the health of library/archive professionals and users. Given this, it is urgent to explore an alternative archive storage strategy to enhance the comprehensive control of archive mould disease. The preservation environment of paper affects its preservation time and quality, and microenvironment regulation is an important approach to the preventive protection of paper cultural relics. In the present study, inorganic materials were introduced into the archive packaging box to alter the microenvironment and enhance the mould and fire prevention effect without affecting the paper performance. Archive packaging boxes have good anti-microbial effects, with a low content of carbon and nitrogen sources effectively blocking the growth and colonization of mould, creating a microenvironment blocking the growth of surrounding mould, and significantly blocking the occurrence of fire, which could effectively improve storage capabilities and staff health in libraries.