Development of a Prototype Microclimate Case
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Authors
O'Gorman, Thérèse Marie
Issue Date
1993
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
1. Final Projects (Museum Studies) 2. Museum conservation methods.
Alternative Title
Abstract
Research suggests the microclimate case has become an effective method for the preservation of museum objects. While microclimate exhibition cases can be found in museums today, many are expensive, mechanical systems prone to failure, poorly constructed, and fabricated with materials that cause damage to museum objects. This research project primarily investigated a passive method to be employed in microclimate cases as an alternative to the problematic active systems.
The purpose of the research was to develop a microclimate case that would stabilize the RH for an extended period of time. Based on the investigative research, a microclimate case was developed that was simple and affordable in design, constructed of inert materials, devoid of mechanical parts, and adaptable to different kinds of museums. The microclimate case as defined was built as a prototype case. The prototype case was then specifically tested to determine if the RH could be stabilized for an extended period of time. The case performance was measured by monitoring the rate of air exchange into the case for several weeks.