Caring for collections

Interventive conservation includes mechanical and chemical remedial treatments to stabilise and/or improve the condition of collection objects. 

The core principles of conservation practice are:

• Minimal intervention
• Using sympathetic materials
• Reversibility
• Documentation of changes

Preventive conservation focuses on protecting museum objects from damage due to agents of deterioration, such as temperature, humidity, light, pollutants, and pests.

Temperature and relative humidity are directly linked. High or low temperatures and relative humidities, as well as large fluctuations, can cause collection objects to deteriorate in a number of ways. 

High temperatures can cause the softening of materials and increase the rate of chemical reactions that cause the deterioration materials, such as corrosion of metals or fading of dyes. Low temperatures can cause materials to become brittle. 

High relative humidity can cause/accelerate mould growth, pest activity, and metal corrosion. Low relative humidity can be beneficial for metal objects, but it causes materials made from plant and animal products to desiccate, shrink, and crack.

Large fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause materials to warp and crack, loosening joints and fastenings, and the separation of layers and lifting of paint.

Museum conditions are maintained in line with the recommendations of the Australian Institute for the Conservation of Cultural Material (AICCM). Conditions are monitored 24 hours a day using wireless data loggers. The loggers record and chart temperature and humidity data in exhibitions and collection stores, giving Conservators an overview of what is happening in any given space. They also send alerts when issues occur, so things can be quickly addressed. 
 

Managing pests is vital for collection protection. Pests such as mould, bacteria, insects, rodents, and birds cause severe damage by eating collection objects or by leaving excretions. 

Pests are attracted to organic materials made from animal and plant products, such as leather, paper, textiles, and timber. Dust and debris in a storage or display space can also attract pests.

In the past, pest management involved regular use of toxic chemicals. Health and safety concerns have led to a more ‘holistic’ approach known as Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which employs nonchemical preventive and treatment measures. 

Pests need food, water, and a place to live.  Understanding pests’ habits and life cycles allows them to be controlled by creating an unfriendly environment. IPM measures include: 

• Upgrading and repairing building structures to prevent access
• Removing pest food sources 
• Isolating and quarantining infested or suspect material 
• Controlling temperature and humidity 
• Effective monitoring and inspections; identification and documentation of pests found 
• Treating outbreaks through non-chemical means.

Collection storage is a key contributor to the condition of objects. When individual items or collections are stored well, the likelihood of damage is significantly reduced. Storing objects in cool and dry locations, with minimal environmental changes provides the best chance for avoiding damage and degradation. 

Additionally, materials for storage and object support should be chosen with a consideration for their materials and what effect they can have upon the object. Specialised conservation materials are constantly being developed to ensure that objects are stored in inert containers and supports, removing the risk of acidic compounds and unknown chemicals degrading the objects while in storage.
 

The museum’ s Conservators can help with information about preserving, storing and protecting your collections. If you have further questions or would like specific advice about conservation, contact us through  conservation@sea.museum 

We can assist with inquiries about the care of collections. If you are looking to have work performed on your collections, we recommend that you contact the The Australian Institute for the Conservation of Cultural Materials (AICCM). The AICCM is a national organisation for conservators and people interested in the preservation of cultural material, and provides an online directory of conservators in private practice and guidelines for commissioning treatment.

Private Conservators can be contacted to assess your items and recommend options for treatment. Conservator’s fees are generally advised at the point of contact.