An example of how sunlight can cause fading to textile materials. Knowledge about the lightfastness of materials and how to protect certain artifacts can help to prevent irreversible photochemical damage.
28 days
UV-exposed
UV- blocked
For the purpose of UV weathering testing, dyed fabric samples were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (via the natural sun) indoors for 28 days in a, closed, west-facing window. During that time, the samples were exposed to varying amounts of direct sunlight and cloud cover.
Collections Care & Preventative Conservation
Collections care and preventative conservation can be defined as any measure taken that prevents damage or degradation to material cultural heritage (or that reduces the potential for it).
In order to mitigate potential risks to a collection, one must first take note of the various agents of deterioration and their unique relationship to each part of a collection. Collection managers, curators, and conservators can all work together to provide optimal care for an institution's collection needs.
PACS is able to assess the mode and frequency of risk type relevant to a collection and develop a plan to mitigate each type of risk present; the end goal is to establish a practical, long-term maintenance and preservation program that can be upheld by museum staff and volunteers.