Preliminary testing of tea leaves as alternative adsorbants for preserving early cellulosic motion picture film

Abstract

Cinematic motion picture film composed of cellulose nitrate or cellulose acetate is an inherently unstable material (Ram, AT 1990, ‘Archival preservation of photographic films—A perspective’, Polymer Degradation and Stability, vol. 29, pp. 3–29; Morgan, J 1991, Conservation of plastics, The Conservation Unit of the Museums & Galleries Commission and the Plastics Historical Society, London). Currently, effective preservation largely relies on cold storage to slow deterioration. Adsorbent materials used in conjunction with cold storage may further extend film lifespan by trapping excess moisture and autocatalytic vapours given off by degrading polymer films. Commercial adsorbants commonly used are: activated charcoal, molecular sieves or silica gel. However, these materials are expensive and can be difficult to access. This research examined the potential of Tea Leaves as an alternative adsorbant for preserving motion picture film. Initial water adsorption testing of three different teas compared to activated charcoal, molecular sieves and silica gel, indicate Tea Leaves are worthy of undergoing further testing for acid vapour adsorption.