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  • 1.  expanded pvc

    Posted 03-23-2023 15:49

    Hi all,

     

    I have another materials question for you all. Our facilities manager has proposed using an expanded pvc (close-celled expanded "foamed" polyvinyl chloride) as a cap for the wire display shelves we'll be adding to our visual storage space (just on two shelving units within the space which will be used as display shelves near the glass, that are rotated more frequently). The idea is for this material to provide a flat surface on which objects can be placed on the shelves. What are your thoughts on the use of this material in close proximity to objects?

     

    Thank you for your help and thank you for the answers to my previous question as well!

     

    Best,

    Julia

     

    Julia Jessen, M.A.
    Registrar | she/her

    MUSEUM OF DANISH AMERICA
    E: JULIA.JESSEN@DANISHMUSEUM.ORG | P: 712.764.7001
    2212 WASHINGTON STREET, ELK HORN, IA 51531

    DANISHMUSEUM.ORG | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | TIKTOK

    Text Description automatically generated with low confidence

    "Celebrating 40 years!"

     

     



  • 2.  RE: expanded pvc

    Posted 03-23-2023 16:30

    Hi Julia,

    I'm the C2C Care monitor for this week, and I'm happy to answer your question! I would avoid using PVC in close proximity to collections - it can emit vinyl chloride and other volatile organic compounds. If you have a photo, that may help me suggest something that might be better suited for use near collections.

    Best wishes,

    Gillian



    ------------------------------
    Gillian Marcus
    C2C Care Monitor
    Assistant Paper Conservator
    Art Institute of Chicago
    ------------------------------



  • 3.  RE: expanded pvc

    Posted 03-23-2023 17:03

    Hi Gillian,

    Thanks so much! Yes, after some more research, I let our facilities staff know that the pvc was vetoed. We're now looking at using acrylic to cover the wire shelves and provide a flat surface. I believe this option should be pretty safe, but please let me know if you have any concerns or suggestions!

    Thank you!

    Julia



    ------------------------------
    Julia Jessen
    Registrar
    Museum of Danish America
    Elk Horn IA
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: expanded pvc

    Posted 03-24-2023 07:41

    Hi Julia, acrylic would definitely be a better solution. Another low-cost alternative would be Coroplast, which can be easily cut into shape and is inert and safe for use with collections. Good luck with your new storage!



    ------------------------------
    Gillian Marcus
    C2C Care Monitor
    Assistant Paper Conservator
    Art Institute of Chicago
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: expanded pvc

    Posted 03-24-2023 11:56

    I'm very interested in this topic as well. When I arrived here a year ago, they were using MDF board to provide a flat surface over the wire shelving, which I have read differing opinions on. I have kept it on some shelves but have not placed items directly on there, only archival boxes. We've also used Coroplast.

     

    Thank you.

    Martha

     

    Martha E. Wiley

    Collection Manager

    Upcountry History Museum – Greenville County

    864-467-3100 x107

     

    UPCOUNTRYHISTORY.ORG

     




    Original Message


  • 6.  RE: expanded pvc

    Posted 03-24-2023 07:41
    Hi Julia,
    There are versions of ridgid PVC foam have been used by major museums for decks and risers in sealed display cases. 
    They are not created equal though. Like any other material it should be tested. The AIC wiki is an up to date resource for these things.I participate in AIC's Materials Working Group and these kinds of material were reviewed not that long ago. 
    One specific version that tested well and was included in a recent study is "Komacel", which is not to be confused with "Komatex" a similar material made by the same company!
    It has a very smooth surface but it will sag over time. In other words if your wire shelves sag then this will match the surface of it if heavy objects are placed there. Another option is a heavy version of Coroplast. 
    No matter what you do, be cognizant that in some jurisdictions solid shelves are not allowed because they limit the effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the event of fire. Good luck!
    Cheers, 
    Ashley 

    --
    T. Ashley McGrew
    San Bruno, CA
    (646) 265 - 5526

     
     





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