Products Used for Display, Storage and Transportation

Module Synopsis

This module provides an overview of products commonly used for mounting, displaying, and storing museum objects. Products covered include woods, papers, paints, plastics, textiles, etc. The use of silica gels and sorbents is discussed, and spot tests to identify some products are demonstrated. Options to avoid problems related to off-gassing or staining are provided. Teaching methods include PowerPoint presentations, examination of samples, group discussion, and a tour of a storage and/or exhibition area. Participants are invited to bring samples for discussion. Note that products used for treatment of objects are not covered in this workshop.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:

• understand the interactions between products and objects
• select products that are suitable for use in museums or archives
• understand the properties of many types of products available on the market
• verify information or test products for compatibility with objects

Units

• Principles of interaction between object and products
• Wood products (including panels, cardboards, and papers)
• Coatings (including paints, varnishes, and stains)
• Textiles
• Plastics (including sheets, boxes, panels, foams, gaskets, adhesives, and sealants)
• Silica gel and pollutant sorbents
• Spot tests (ideally with a fume hood)
• Optional: Internet search (if Internet access is available)
• Optional: tour of a collection storage room and/or exhibit gallery to see examples of facilities

Target Audience

Staff and volunteers involved in collection management including storage and exhibition.

Facilitator(s)

Jean Tétreault

Language

English or French

Enrollment Limits

Minimum 10; maximum 25

Duration

2 days

Special Requirements

The host institution must provide:

• laptop, projector, and electric extension cord (if needed for installation)
• screen for PowerPoint presentation
• white board or flip chart, markers, and a pointer (such as laser or wooden stick)
• table for the projector (if necessary) and a table for product samples
• some glassware, alcohol burner/ propane torch, and common chemicals such as peroxide solution, alcohol, and sodium hydroxide beads for spot tests

In addition, access to an exhibition or storage room for a tour, and access to the Internet in the lecture room would be appreciated.