Connecting to Collections Care

Dear Lana,

PETG is a thermoplastic polyester known for its durability and chemical resistance. In the context of archival work, PETG is generally considered suitable due to its inert properties. The Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) includes PETG in its list of materials used in preventive conservation, indicating its acceptance for such applications (see linked)

Regarding its interaction with bronze, PETG is chemically stable and does not emit harmful substances that could induce corrosion in metals. Therefore, using PETG for 3D-printed canisters to hold desiccants near bronze artifacts should not pose a risk of adverse reactions.

However, it's essential to ensure that the PETG material used is free from additives or plasticizers that might off-gas over time, as these could potentially affect sensitive materials. Additionally, maintaining a stable environment with controlled humidity levels is crucial to prevent corrosion in bronze artifacts.

In summary, PETG is considered appropriate for archival purposes and should be safe for use in proximity to bronze artifacts, provided that the material is pure and the environmental conditions are properly managed.

All my best,

Luisa

C2CC Monitor