Paper, Parchment and Vellum Standards

 


 
    Light   Temperature   Relative Humidity
Parchment

    and

  Vellum

   Recommended:

  • Total darkness whenever possible;   Protection from strong light (natural or artificial) and UV light for material in use

 

 

  Recommended:

  • 18C - 20C or cooler  

  Recommended:

  • between 50% and 55% RH

 

  

  Acceptable:

  • shortest duration and least intensity of exposure possible

 

 

  Acceptable:

  • As close as possible to recommended range;   minimal and gradual seasonal fluctuations  

 

  Acceptable:

  • 40%  to 45%

 

 

  Not acceptable:

  • High light levels; direct sunlight; fluorescent lights without UV shields.

 

  Not acceptable:

  • above 25C; large daily temperature swings

 

  Not acceptable:

  • Over 55% RH; under 40% RH; Any fluctuations beyond the 5% range which an archives has established as its norm for storage

 

Paper  Recommended:
  • Total darkness whenever possible; protection from strong light (natural or artificial) and UV light for material in use

 

Recommended:

  • 18C - 20C or cooler

 

 

Recommended:

  • 40% and 45% RH

 

 

Acceptable:

  • shortest duration and least intensity of exposure possible

 

Acceptable:

  • As close as possible to recommended range; minimal and gradual seasonal fluctuations

 

Acceptable:

  • 35%  to 55%

 

 

Not acceptable:

  • High light levels; direct sunlight; fluorescent lights without UV shields.

 

Not acceptable:

  • above 25C; large daily temperature swings

 

Not acceptable:

  • Over 55% RH or below 35% RH; daily fluctuations in excess of 3% to 5% RH

 

 

 
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