Mass Deacidification: An Update on Possibilities and Limitations

Abstract

This report provides an update of the possibilities and limitations of currently available mass deacidification methods, focusing on the major developments in research and application of the main operational systems. This study is intended primarily to support the development of a well-considered preservation policy by librarians and archivists, with a focus on the practical implications of mass deacidification rather than the technical details of the deacidification process. The study provides a brief history of the development of the technical process, a condensed description of the treatment principle, an overview of available research and test results, indicating the main advantages and disadvantages of the process, and an inventory of actual applications for five mass deacidification systems: (1) "Battelle"; (2) "Bookkeeper"; (3) "DEZ"; (4) "FMC"; and (5) "Wei T'o." Several other initiatives are also described, involving large-scale rather than mass treatment technologies, and essentially combining deacidification with strengthening of paper. The main findings are discussed within the framework of a critical evaluation of the current possibilities and limitations of mass deacidification in general. A list of contacts is provided.

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