J.IIC-CG VOLUME 5 (1980)
Contamination of a Collection by a Demineralizer/Aerosol Humidifier System
An ubiquitous pale green dust appeared on a large collection of artifacts located in Ottawa, Canada. Analysis of the dust revealed the presence of sodium chloride, copper corrosion products, siliceous and organic material. The source of the deposit was traced to the humidification system, which consisted of three aerosol-type humidifiers, fed with demineralized (deionized) water through copper tubing. Further investigation showed that the sodium chloride was originating from the mixed bed demineralizer, the copper was originating from the tubing, and the aerosol humidifiers were dispersing these contaminants throughout the room. The problem was eliminated when a new steam humidification system was installed. The authors conclude that aerosol type humidifiers should not be used for the humidification of collections.
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