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Re: vinyl in a time capsule?



Hi Jennifer,

Sharon Butcher has already addressed a lot of the problems with vinyl
permanency (additives, plasticizers, dyes, etc.)  I'd just like to add that
vinyl itself can emit hydrochloric acid as it ages, and this could affect
everything in the time capsule, even the items that aren't directly touching
the banner.  I think I would advise your Bicentennial Committee not to
include the banner at all - the risks might be pretty high.  If they really
want to, wrapping it tightly in alkaline buffered paper or paper containing
zeolites would probably help decrease the likelihood for damages.

Good luck!

Sandy Hempe
Conservator
Missouri State Archives

-----Original Message-----
From: Jennifer King [mailto:Jking@CO.ARLINGTON.VA.US]
Sent: Tuesday, March 12, 2002 7:43 AM
To: ARCHIVES@LISTSERV.MUOHIO.EDU
Subject: vinyl in a time capsule?


Hello Listserv,

I been asked by the Bicentennial Committee to find out if they should
include what they describe as a vinyl banner in the time capsule that will
be opened in 50 years.  The capsule is metal (titanium?) and will be stored
underneath glass made by NASA, so I think the internal environment will
remain fairly sound.  Below is the description they provided to me. If
anyone has advice, please pass it along.

"No, it doesn't say it is vinyl, but I am certain that it is.  It is white
with black and blue lettering that has been  glued on.  Though I don't know
what kind of adhesive.  It has metal grommets and is 10' x 8'.  The banner
was made to hang outside and in fact it did hang at the County Fair,
Clarendon Day and a few other places, so it is not pristine."

Thank you,

Jennifer King
Virginia Room
Arlington County Public Library
703-228-7696

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